It’s fall and I’m 100% guilty of giving into all of the pumpkin craze! Granted, I don’t drink PSLs and sprinkle myself in pumpkin spice perfume, but I do really love the flavor and creamy texture of pumpkin. I’ve been in love with pumpkin and it’s cousin the butternut squash since I was a small child. Fun fact, I ate so much butternut squash in high school that the palms of my hands and bottoms of my feet actually turned orange! Like I said, guilty and basic as can be! Pumpkin aside, I also love the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom that go along with it. Oftentimes these are called mulling spices because once upon a time, people would “mull” apple cider with all of these delicious spices in their homes instead of buying it premade in the store. How does one break away from the cliche’ pumpkin and really do something creative in the kitchen you ask? Well I have a few ideas just for you!
Pumpkin coconut curry. Savory, delicious, and hearty, this dish is right on cue for the cooler months of the year. Traditional curry spices offset the sweetness of the gourd and add a unique depth to the dish. When I make pumpkin coconut curry, I use full fat coconut, a half of a can of pumpkin, lots of veggies and chicken for the protein. Lamb would also be a delish alternative in this recipe.Top with a dollop of greek yogurt and you’ll be in curry heaven.
Pumpkin soup. Yes I know you can buy these pre-made in the grocery stores, but have you looked to see how much sugar is in those soups?!? I have and it is preposterous! I don’t like dessert for dinner, thank you very much. Using canned pumpkin makes this recipe quick and easy as well as modifiable for Paleo eaters. I like to saute onions and olive oil and then stir in the canned pumpkin, chicken stock and my secret spice mixture. Fenugreek pairs very nicely with the pumpkin and gives the soup a meaty flavor without the beef! Not feeling Paleo? Add cream to the canned pumpkin for a decadent yet simplistic soup that will wow the pants off of any critic!
Pumpkin Smoothies. Not quite a milkshake, and not quite your traditional smoothie, this is one treat that will satisfy your pumpkin pie cravings! Freeze the bananas to give the smoothie that ice cream-like texture and use coconut milk as your liquid to build on the creaminess. Add your favorite spices, protein powder/collagen and sweeten with a hint of pure maple syrup or honey. There you have a perfect pumpkin pie craving solved in one nutrient packed treat!
Pumpkin Quiche. I cannot take any credit for this one! My sister actually found a recipe on Pinterest and it wowed the both of us. This of course was not a paleo recipe, but it was worth the exception. The delicacy of the fluffy eggs combined with the heartiness of the pumpkin was a texture paradise in my mouth. I love quiche and this recipe put me over the moon with foodie happiness! If you’re a fan, I’d totally give this recipe a try.
Pumpkin Face Mask. Wait, what??? Yes. Mix a little canned pumpkin with honey and give your face an extra moisturizing spa treatment. Pumpkin is packed with all kinds of nutrients that will leave your skin feeling soft and refreshed! Plus it’s a great way to use up any extra pumpkin that is lying around before it goes bad.
Hopefully you have some ideas of your own now that I’ve shared some ways to use pumpkin without all that spice. Until the next time, happy fall y’all- seriously... I crack myself up!
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