What to do with Pumpkins after Halloween

Pumpkins are a fun and festive part of Halloween, but what do you do with them after the holiday is over? Here are a few ideas:

• Eat them! Pumpkins are versatile and delicious vegetables that can be used in a variety of dishes, such as pies, soups, stews, and curries. If you’re not sure how to cook pumpkin, there are many recipes available online and in cookbooks.
• Compost them. Pumpkins are a great addition to your compost bin. They are high in nutrients and will help to improve the quality of your soil. If you don’t have your own compost bin, many cities offer curbside compost pickup.
• Feed them to animals. Pumpkins are a healthy snack for many animals, including cows, pigs, goats, deer and chickens. If you have a local farm or animal sanctuary, you may be able to donate your pumpkins to them.
• Decorate with them. Pumpkins can be used to create a variety of fall decorations, such as centerpieces, wreaths, and scarecrows. You can also carve them into jack-o’-lanterns (or other designs) and display them on your porch or in your yard.
• Create something new. Pumpkins can be used to create a variety of crafts and projects, such as birdhouses, planters, and even musical instruments. If you’re feeling creative, the possibilities are endless!

Here are a few additional tips:

• If you’re planning to eat your pumpkin, be sure to choose one that is unbleached and uncarved.
• To compost your pumpkin, cut it into small pieces and add it to your compost bin.
• If you’re feeding your pumpkin to animals, be sure to remove the seeds first.
• To decorate with your pumpkin, you can carve it, paint it, or even leave it plain.
• If you’re creating something new out of your pumpkin, be sure to clean it thoroughly first.

No matter what you choose to do with your pumpkin, make sure to enjoy it! Pumpkins are a versatile and beautiful fruit that can be used in many different ways.

Easy Recipe for Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a medium bowl, toss the pumpkin seeds with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the seeds are golden brown and crispy.
6. Let the seeds cool completely before storing them in an airtight container.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, you can add other seasonings to the pumpkin seeds, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
• If you want your pumpkin seeds to be extra crispy, you can bake them for a few minutes longer.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Variations:

• Sweet pumpkin seeds: Toss the toasted pumpkin seeds with a mixture of 1 tablespoon melted butter, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.

Susan Brewer Service First Real Estate (636)936-8600