Saturday, April 21, 2012

What about Pumpkin?

I have been researching the benefits of using pumpkin in my diet.  Pumpkin is a member of the squash family.  It contains a wealth of nutrition to include antioxidants.  It is also a great source of fiber and low in fat.   Canned pumpkin is just as tasty and healthy for you as fresh.  Be sure to buy 100% pure canned pumpkin and check the label for no salt, sugar, flavorings, or preservatives.  Try some of the following in your cooking.

Add pumpkin to your pasta sauce to reduce sodium and you will not notice the taste only thicker sauce.  Suggested to add one cup of pumpkin to every three cups of sauce. 

Add pumpkin to mashed potatoes to reduce fat and calories. It will also make your mashed potatoes golden in color.

Add pumpkin to brown rice for some extra flavor and fiber.  For each cup of uncooked rice add half cup of pumpkin to the cooking water. 

Add pumpkin to hot cocoa for extra fiber.  Use pure baking cocoa and add honey for sweetness. 

Watch for the pumpkin pie recipe under the pages section.  This is a great healthy twist for pumpkin pie eaters.  There is no sugar in this recipe only honey.  I top it with Greek yogurt for added nutrition. 

1 comment:

  1. When I was visiting my family in Pennsylvania my brother-in-law wanted to try pumpkin in the mashed potatoes. It was really good and gave the potatoes a nice flavor. If you like potatoes and pumpkin give this a try. You could also add some cinnamon.

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