Since I know how much you all love hearing about everything pumpkin this time of year (PSL anyone?), I thought why not elaborate on the multiple ways you can use this fun ingredient in some healthier ways this season. (Disclaimer: I would never, ever discourage eating pumpkin pie)
As I was taking a study break this weekend, I decided to try my hand at making a soup that incorporated pumpkin puree. I was hesitant at first because I had never had pumpkin in a soup before, but it was a dreary day outside and quite frankly nothing sounded better than a hot cup of soup to accompany me by the fireplace. This soup is loaded with fiber and has a little spice to it – perfect for pairing with sandwiches, and only takes about 30 minutes to make. Below is the recipe and some other fun ways to add pumpkin in some other dishes!
(just a representation – see the recipe for actual ingredients)
Perfect Pumpkin Soup Recipe: (serves 7)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 medium sweet red pepper, chopped
- 2 TBSP margarine
- 2 cups corn kernels, frozen or fresh
- 1 jalepeno pepper, seeded and chopped
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 cans low sodium vegetable broth
- 1 ¾ cups pumpkin puree
- ½ tsp salt
- dash of cayenne pepper
- 2 TBSP lime juice
Nutrition Facts per Serving:
Calories: 120 Protein: 3g
Total Fat: 4g Carbohydrates: 19g
Saturated Fat: 0g Cholesterol: 0mg
Dietary Fiber: 5g Sodium: 115 mg
And More!!
Pumpkin Parfait: Make a pumpkin parfait! Pair low fat vanilla yogurt with pumpkin puree and top with cinnamon, nutmeg granola, or mixed nuts for a quick and easy snack!
Pumpkin Seeds For Your Salad! Use as a salad topping! Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top of your salad with some raisins or dried cranberries for a nice sweet/savory combo!
Pumpkin on Toast? Yes! Slather it on your morning toast! Mix pumpkin puree with a tsp of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon for a nice change from typical grape jelly.
Pumpkin Muffins: Bake up some healthy pumpkin muffins! (my personal favorite) Follow this recipe for the perfect fall inspired treat! (check out her other recipes too!) http://cookieandkate.com/2014/healthy-maple-pumpkin-muffins/
Happy Pumpkining!
Meet Hillary:
I’m Hillary! University of Mississippi Dietetics graduate, future RDN, peanut butter addict, runner. I love traveling, thunderstorms, healthy eats and always saving room for dessert! Nourish to flourish y’all!
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