When November 1st hits and it’s time to put all the cotton spider webs, fake blood, and costumes away, you’re also tasked with one more thing: disposing of your pumpkins.
Whether carved or not, your pumpkins don’t need to be thrown out with the trash. You can put them to good use. Here’s how:
Not-Carved Pumpkins
Roast pumpkin seeds
High in protein and fiber, roasted pumpkin seeds are an easy, healthy snack your family will love! With just butter, salt and/or other seasonings, and Worchestire sauce (optional), you have the simple recipe for this delicious treat. And there’s dozens of ways to enjoy them, like on top of salads or mixed in granola.
Make pumpkin soup
The natural flavor of pumpkin is so rich in flavor that you don’t need very much to make a tasty soup. Find a recipe you like, like this one from Cookie + Kate, and indulge the thick, creamy, full-flavored goodness!
Make pumpkin bread
A seasonal favorite, pumpkin bread is great not just for its flavor, but for the wonderful scent it gives your home while it bakes.
Bake a pumpkin pie
When it comes to desserts, pumpkin pies are one of the best choices you can make in terms of fat and calories. One slice (1/8 of a 9-inch pie) contains about 260 calories and 10 grams of fat. Check out this recipe for a delicious crustless pumpkin pie!
Use as decor
From vases and candle holders to centerpieces and terrariums, there are tons of ways to use pumpkins as festive decor. Click here for 25 ways to decorate your home with pumpkins from Country Living.
Cut into pieces and leave out for animals (away from your house)
As long as they aren’t painted, pumpkins are safe, nutritious, and delicious for wildlife.
Jack-O’-Lanterns
- Cut off the top half of the carved pumpkin and turn it into a bird feeder. Fill it with birdseed and hang it on a tree.
- Chop them up and add them to your compost pile.
We should all do what we can to live more sustainably. This year, enjoy your pumpkin beyond Halloween.
