As the weather gets chillier, it’s easy to fall into the habit of reaching for comfort foods. However, there are tasty treats around this time that won’t have you feeling tricked – and what’s more fall than pumpkins? Don’t be fooled by jack-o-lanterns, pumpkins make a great snack! Here’s how you can use a whole pumpkin for two different recipes and perfect autumn treats.

Pumpkins are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and fiber and can be used plenty of ways. A healthy diet, rich in a variety of vegetables and fruit may help reduce the risk of heart disease – and did you know that pumpkins are actually a fruit?

Baked Pumpkin Slices

You’ll want to pick up an extra pumpkin just for eating. Eat it with some dip as a snack or prepare it as a side for dinner. (Don’t forget to save the seeds for roasting!)

Ingredients

  • 1 small pumpkin or ¼ large pumpkin
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. 
  • Scoop out the seeds and insides of the pumpkin with a large metal spoon and save them for roasting. Cut the pumpkin into one-inch slices.
  • Place pumpkin slices on a baking sheet. Drizzle the slices with olive oil and rub on both sides and season. Roast for 15-20 minutes.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

If you’re carving a pumpkin or making baked pumpkin slices, this healthy and crunchy snack is a must! It’s paleo, gluten-free and vegan – not to mention the perfect addition to a scary movie night.

Ingredients

  • 1½ cups raw whole pumpkin seeds, washed
  • 2 tsp butter, melted
  • 1 pinch kosher salt

Directions

  • Preheat the oven to 300°F.
  • Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet. 
  • Bake for 45 minutes or until golden brown. Stir occasionally.

Whether you’re craving sweet or savoury, you can experiment with different seasonings to make these recipes your own. Want something sweet? Try brown sugar, nutmeg or cinnamon. Want something savoury? Try ranch seasoning, parmesan or oregano. Share your creations on social media and tag us @coldfx!