Fresh or canned, pumpkin's really healthy stuff. In the kitchen, treat pumpkin as you would any winter squash. Try it in healthy soups, stews, chili -- even pancakes. Here are 5 reasons to eat more pumpkin this fall.
1. Vitamins
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. Pumpkin has almost 20% of your RDA of Vitamin C. Here are some delicious pumpkin snacks to try:
Easy Pumpkin Dip
Pumpkin Hummus
2. Energy
We know bananas are full of energy boosting potassium, but pumpkins are also a great source. One cup of cooked, mashed pumpkin will give you 564mg of potassium which is actually more than you'll get from a regular-sized banana. These breakfast treats with pumpkin are delicious and sustaining.
Pumpkin Pancakes
Pumpkin Oatmeal
Pumpkin Wheat Honey Muffins
Pumpkin Oat Bars
3. Fiber
Pumpkin is a good source of fiber, especially pumpkin seeds/pepitas. A cup of pumpkin seeds contains 12g of dietary fiber. Add toasted pumpkin seeds to salads for a a tasty way to get your fiber.
Cinnamon Toast Pumpkin Seeds
European Muesli (with Pumpkin Seeds)
4. Iron
Pumpkin seeds are also a great source of iron, and a 1 oz serving will give you 4.2mg of iron. The seeds are also an excellent source of zinc, magnesium, manganese, and monounsaturated fat.
Pumpkin Seed Pasta
5. Hearty Dinners
On those cold winter nights, pumpkin can add a lot of nourishment and flavor to your dinner. Add it to soups, chilli, pasta and risotto. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Pumpkin Soup
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Turkey Chili
Roast Pumpkin and Feta Risotto
Related
- Our Complete Collection of Pumpkin Recipes
- 8 Pumpkin Desserts That Make Pie Jealous
- Top-Rated Pumpkin Spice Treats