Close
Photo: Getty Images
After carvinga pumpkinfor a jack-o'-lantern or using it ina delicious recipe, you’re usually left with a mess. But don’t transfer that mess to the trash just yet! You can actually turn those stringy pumpkin guts (aka pulp and seeds—here’show to separate them) into more things than you might think. Read on to learn more about their health benefits and what to do with leftover pumpkin guts.
Health benefits
Not only is pumpkin festive for the fall, it has someamazing health benefits, too! Here are a few potential health benefits that you need to know about:
But don’t forget about the seeds! They have their fair share ofhealth benefitsas well:
How to store pumpkin pulp & seeds
Pulp
After removing the seeds from the pulp, you can refrigerate the pulp in an airtight storage container for two to four days, until ready for use. Or, stick it in the freezer in a tightly sealed container, where it will lastup to three months. You may puree the pulp first, if that fits your intended use. Defrost frozen pulp in the refrigerator overnight.
Seeds
Rinse the pumpkin seeds in a colander, strainer or the basket of a salad spinner, making sure to remove any stuck-on pulp. If using a salad spinner, take the seeds for a spin and then pour them onto paper or clothe towels and pat dry. Transfer the seeds to dry towels and let them sit out overnight. It’s important the seeds are thoroughly dry to avoid mold growth. Refrigerate the dry seeds in an airtight container, and plan to use them within a week, or place them in the freezer alongside the pulp where they will last (at least) up to three months as well.
Everything You Need To Know About Pumpkin Puree
What to do with leftover pumpkin pulp & seeds
Vegetable Stock
Homemade Vegetable Stockisn’t as hard as you might think! All it requires is a little planning. Keep a gallon-size reusable bag in your freezer at all times, and add scraps of veggies as you cook. Once your bag is full of trimmings, scraps and pulp from onions, celery, carrots … and pumpkin, add them to a pot, cover with water and set to simmer. Add any aromatics and spices you like, depending on the intended use of the stock. Not only are youreducing food waste, it’s easy and delicious, too! Use it as the base for your next batch ofyour favorite soup.
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Don’t forget about the seeds (and theirhealth benefits)! Pumpkin seeds areextremely versatileandquick to roast. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, tryCinnamon-Sugar Pumpkin Seeds. Looking for something savory? Try your hand atPumpkin Seeds with Everything Bagel Seasoningmade from scratch. You can also add them togranola bars,loose granola, andtrail mixesfor your next hike.
Once you have roasted seeds at the ready (you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for at least a month), sprinkle them onsaladsor evennachos—anywhere that could use a tasty, nutty crunch.
Get Creative
Healthy Pumpkin Seed Recipes
Bottom line
Don’t just pile up pumpkin guts on some old newspaper, wrap it and toss it. There are so many uses for both the pulp and seeds. From soups to breads to crunchy snacks, when you use the whole pumpkin, you create less waste, get more bang for your buck and add to your repertoire of delicious, healthy dishes.
Which Pie Is Healthier: Apple or Pumpkin?
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!Tell us why!OtherSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Tell us why!OtherSubmit
Tell us why!
