Fresh or canned, pumpkin’s really healthy stuff.
Simple Roasted Pumpkin | Photo by Meredith
That vibrant orange color tells us something about pumpkin’s health properties. Yes, it’s an excellent source of beta carotene, the powerful antioxidant. Our bodies translate beta carotene into Vitamin A, which is thought to protect us from certain cancers and other diseases, too. Vitamin A is also key for keeping your eyesight keen.
Pumpkins are also a good source of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. The seeds, meanwhile, are packed with fiber and protein; they are also an excellent source of zinc, magnesium, manganese, iron, and monounsaturated fat.
In the kitchen, treat pumpkin as you would any winter squash. Try it in healthy soups, stews, chili — even pancakes.
1.) Easy Pumpkin Dip
Photo by Meredith
2.) Pumpkin Hummus
Photo by Cyn D
3.) Cinnamon Toast Pumpkin Seeds
Photo by lutzflcat
Related: How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds
4.) European Muesli (with Pumpkin Seeds)
Photo by Pam Ziegler Lutz
5.) Pumpkin Smoothie
Photo by CCLoves2Bake
6.) Pumpkin Pancakes
Photo by Dianne
7.) Pumpkin Oatmeal
Photo by CCLoves2Bake
8.) Pumpkin Apple Streusel Muffins
Photo by CCLoves2bake
9.) Pumpkin Oat Bars
Photo by ReneePaj
Related: Pumpkin, The Breakfast Squash of Champions
10.) Pumpkin Soup
Photo by Allrecipes
11.) Spicy Pumpkin Chili
Photo by Sherri
12.) Beef and Pumpkin Stew (Cazuela de Vaca)
Photo by Laura
Like that? Try this: Pumpkin Stew
13.) Pumpkin Turkey Chili
Photo by Darcey55
14.) Pumpkin Chipotle Soup
Photo by SunnyByrd
Like that? Try this: Thai Pumpkin Soup
15.) Pumpkin and Tofu Miso Soup
Photo by Linda T
Related: More Pumpkin Soup Recipes
16.) Chicken and Pumpkin Lasagna
Photo by footballgrl16
17.) Roast Pumpkin and Feta Risotto
Photo by Jamie Justice Yost
18.) Chicken and Pumpkin Goulash
Photo by Seattle2Sydney
19.) Roasted Pumpkins
Roasted Pumpkin | Photo by Buckwheat Queen