When you carve a pumpkin for Halloween or make a delicious pumpkin pie, the inevitable question arises: what should you do with the pumpkin guts? Instead of tossing them out, consider these creative and eco-friendly ways to make the most of this often-overlooked part of the pumpkin.
Here are seven fantastic ways to use pumpkin guts that not only reduce food waste but also add flavor, nutrition, and fun to your day!
1. Make Pumpkin Seed Butter
If you love nut butters like peanut or almond, why not try pumpkin seed butter? After separating the seeds from the pulp, give them a good rinse and roast them in the oven with a pinch of salt. Once roasted, blend them in a food processor until smooth, and voila—delicious pumpkin seed butter that you can spread on toast or add to smoothies.
2. Roast the Pumpkin Seeds
One of the simplest and tastiest ways to use your pumpkin guts is to roast the seeds. After cleaning them, toss them in olive oil, salt, and your favorite spices—cinnamon, paprika, or garlic powder work wonderfully. Spread the seeds on a baking sheet and roast at 180°C for 15-20 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy. They make for a nutritious and satisfying snack or a crunchy salad topping.
3. Compost the Pulp
For eco-conscious gardeners, pumpkin pulp is a great addition to your compost pile. The nutrients in the pumpkin are excellent for enriching soil, especially for vegetables like tomatoes and squash. Just make sure to cut up the pulp into smaller pieces to help it decompose faster. Over time, you’ll create a rich, organic compost that will help your garden thrive.
4. Make Pumpkin Soup
Turn the pumpkin guts into a delicious, creamy soup. The flesh from the inside of the pumpkin has a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Simply sauté onions and garlic, add the pumpkin pulp, and simmer with vegetable broth until soft. Blend everything together for a smooth, velvety soup that’s perfect for chilly days.
5. Create Pumpkin Face Masks
Pumpkin is packed with vitamins A and C, making it a great addition to skincare. Combine pumpkin pulp with honey and yogurt to create a rejuvenating face mask. The enzymes in pumpkin help exfoliate the skin, while honey moisturizes, leaving your skin smooth and glowing. Apply the mixture for about 15 minutes and rinse off with warm water for an all-natural skincare treat.
6. Use It in Smoothies
Pumpkin pulp adds a wonderful, creamy texture to smoothies. Blend the pumpkin guts with other fruits like banana, apple, and a dash of cinnamon for a fall-inspired smoothie. Not only does it make your smoothie rich and thick, but it also provides a healthy dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants to kickstart your day.
7. Pumpkin Pulp Pancakes
Why not incorporate the nutrient-packed pumpkin guts into your breakfast? Add them to pancake batter for a fun twist on a classic dish. You can mix the pulp into the batter along with cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple syrup for a delicious and festive fall treat. The pumpkin adds moisture and a subtle sweetness, making your pancakes extra fluffy and flavorful.
Next time you carve a pumpkin or cook up a pumpkin dish, don’t throw away those guts! From making pumpkin butter to crafting a nourishing face mask, there are plenty of ways to give this humble pumpkin part a second life. Not only will you reduce food waste, but you’ll also enjoy a variety of creative and delicious uses that add a seasonal touch to your meals and self-care routine. So, embrace the pumpkin guts this fall—you’ll be amazed at what you can do with them!
