As we transition from Halloween to Thanksgiving and Christmas, you may be preparing to get rid of your pumpkin. There are a variety of both fun and eco-friendly ways to do this. So, before you head to the dumpster, consider some of these ideas options.
1. Roast pumpkin seeds.
Looking for a tasty, healthy and easy snack? Pumpkin seeds are waiting at your doorstep—literally, if you’re a proud porch pumpkin owner! Scoop the pumpkin seeds from the inside of the pumpkin and rinse them with water to get all the gooey pumpkin guts off. Let the seeds dry overnight then, in the morning, mix the seeds in a bowl with olive oil, salt, pepper and any other spices of your choosing. (Many recipes recommend paprika or pumpkin spice seasonings). Next, place your seeds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Create a decorative flower pot/planter.
Scoop out the insides of your pumpkin and let it dry out. You can use the hollowed-out pumpkin as a festive fall/Thanksgiving flower pot or planter.
3. Make multi-purposeful pumpkin puree.
Pumpkin puree is used in a variety of recipes—from desserts to soup to spreads—and it is the perfect fall treat. Making your own pumpkin puree is simple, and likely healthier than what you would find in the grocery store. Simply cut the pumpkin in half, stem to base. Remove the seeds and pulp. Cover both sides of the pumpkin in foil and bake at 325 degrees for about one hour, or until soft. When removed from oven, scrape the “meat” out of the pumpkin and puree in a blender.
4. Feed animals.
If you’re an outdoors person or animal-lover, this may be right up your alley. Most birds will eat pumpkin seeds, and you can even cut out wedges for other wild, furry friends like deer. Obviously, make sure you are distributing these animal treats in a responsible manner by making sure the location is safe and legal.
Peace out pumpkins. Bring on the turkey!