Don’t toss your pumpkins just because Halloween is over. Pumpkins aren’t just for making jack-o-lanterns, they are an extremely nutritious fruit and full of antioxidants. And the health benefits of pumpkin don’t stop there.
How Healthy Are Pumpkins?
(Factual Information thanks to WebMD)
- Pumpkins are rich in fiber, which helps you to feel full and slows digestion. This fruit is filling is very low in calories with canned pumpkin having less than 50 calories per serving.
- The next time you are carving a pumpkin, or taking out the filling for a pie, be sure to keep the seeds. One ounce of seeds contains protein, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
- The vibrant orange color of pumpkins is thanks to beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A in the human body. With cold and flu season about to begin pumpkins are major immunity boosters because of the amount of vitamin A they provide. The dose of vitamin C that pumpkin provides can help you recover from a cold much quicker too.
There are many ways to get your daily dose of pumpkin. Pumpkins are very versatile in their uses for cooking and most of the fruit is edible. If you can’t get your hands on a fresh pumpkin or don’t want the mess of carving one; organic canned pumpkin or seeds, found in bulk at the grocery store will suffice.
You will find many pumpkin recipes online used in breakfast, dinner and desserts. We have compiled some of our favorites to share with you. Secret Ingredient loves eatthis.com’s, Spicy Pumpkin Parfait. It is full of fall flavors and a healthy breakfast for the season. Another simple and favorite pumpkin breakfast or snack are these Grain-Free Pumpkin Muffins. Made with healthy and whole grain ingredients, these muffins are moist, fluffy and perfect for fall. Also, try adding a little pumpkin and nuts to a hot bowl of oatmeal for a heartier breakfast.
We love this Kale, Quinoa and Roasted Pumpkin Pilaf from taste.com.au. It is a delicious and colorful vegetarian side dish or filling enough to serve as the entire meal.
And we’ll leave you with a Secret Ingredient dessert favorite, pumpkin cheesecake. Who doesn’t love pumpkin pie or cheesecake on their Thanksgiving table?
And speaking of Thanksgiving; are you hosting friends and family this year? Are you overwhelmed with having to plan and prepare a feast? Let Secret Ingredient come to the rescue. We can prepare your entire meal ahead of time leaving you with more time to enjoy your guests.
Let us take care of you before and after Thanksgiving, contact us today to try our personal chef services. Not only do we provide dinner solutions; many options like the pumpkin muffins and parfaits are offered for healthy breakfast add-ons to your regular dinner service.
