- Life on Earth -: The Many Ways To Bring Pumpkin To The Table

Pumpkins. Its autumn and these orangish yellowish gourd-like squash are everywhere, mostly for decoration. But realize that there are just so many opportunities for us to incorporate this fruit into our diets.

Some history…the entomology of the word pumpkin originates from a Greek work meaning ‘large melon’. And although a clear lineage hasn’t been recorded, most believe that the pumpkin’s ancestors began life in North America some 9000 years ago.

Health benefits…Research indicates that pumpkins contain phytochemicals, hence that bright orange hue, that may favorably affect our insulin and glucose levels. That orange color, as with carrots, sweet potatoes and butternut squash, is an indication that pumpkins have the well-known antioxidant beta-carotene, which researchers believe may play a role in cancer prevention (National Cancer Institute). Pumpkins also pack a punch of vitamin A with over 200% of our daily recommended value. Remember, vitamin A is important for healthy vision. Also included in the pumpkin: tryptophan, vitamin C, and potassium. Want more….? Well.. pumpkins are an excellent source of fiber, not to mention they are low in calories; the end result: a food that helps us shed pounds!

All this information is great but we want to get to the heart of the matter…how can we enjoy the benefits of this fruit in our everyday diets. No problem. Here are some delicious and exciting ways to invite pumpkin in:

Pumpkin bread/muffins (see my previous post of an amazing recipe) http://www.vitaaterra.com/2011/10/moist-pumpkin-cake-or-muffins.html

Pumpkin Beer – here is a link to BeerAdvocate listing pumpkin beers, their brewers, and a rating. Enjoy! http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/72

Pumpkin Ravioli: an easy, delicious, healthy 30 minute meal

Ingredients:

· 1 cup canned pumpkin

· 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

· 1/4 teaspoon salt

· 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

· 24 wonton wrappers

· 1 teaspoon salt

· 1/2 cup chicken broth

· 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter

· Chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Combine 1 cup pumpkin, 1/3 cup Parmesan, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper.

2. Spoon about 2 teaspoons pumpkin mixture into center of each wonton wrapper. Moisten edges of dough with water; bring 2 opposite sides together to form a triangle, pinching edges to seal.

3. Place ravioli into a large saucepan of boiling water with 1 teaspoon salt; cook 7 minutes, and drain in a colander.

4. Place 1/2 cup broth and 1 1/2 tablespoons butter in pan; bring to a boil. Add ravioli, tossing to coat. Sprinkle with parsley.