Fall always calls for one delicious ingredient: pumpkin! And while fall temperatures aren’t really a thing here in Hawaii, it’s still the perfect time of year to bring out the pumpkin, especially with Thanksgiving approaching.
So, here are 11 healthy pumpkin recipes that you should definitely try, along with why eating more pumpkin is actually a great idea!
All The Health Benefits of Pumpkins
Pumpkins are actually much more nutritious than you would think and have been linked to several health benefits.
Just one cup of cooked pumpkin contains protein, lots of vitamins (Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin B2, Vitamin E), fiber, beta-carotene, and minerals, like potassium, copper, and iron. All of these nutrients can lead to a boosted immune system, improved heart health, and even enhanced eyesight. Pumpkins are also high in antioxidants, which some studies have shown reduces your risk of chronic diseases and protects your skin against sun damage. Aside from containing lots of beneficial nutrients, pumpkins are low in calories and 94% water, which is great for those trying to maintain or lose weight.
11 Healthy Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love
Thanks to the Internet, there are TONS of healthy pumpkin recipes online. We’ve picked out some of our favorites and compiled them into a list for you. Hopefully, you’ll find a few you’ll want to try!
Pumpkin Pie Protein Smoothie
This pumpkin pie protein smoothie by The Lemon Bowl is a great, healthy way to experience pumpkin pie in a cup! With a base of unsweetened pure pumpkin, this protein-packed smoothie is a great way to boost your protein intake.
Healthy Pumpkin Muffins
These healthy pumpkin muffins by Cookie and Kate are an awesome way to satisfy a sweet tooth. They are made with pumpkin puree, whole wheat flour, and oats and sweetened with maple syrup or honey to make a delicious, healthy treat.
Healthy Pumpkin Oat Cookies
These healthy pumpkin oat cookies by Running on Real Food make for a nutritious snack that is delicious and satisfying. This recipe is super easy, low-calorie, vegan, gluten-free, and oil-free, with a sugar-free option.
Ginger-Pumpkin Soup
Though it may seem a little unusual, using pumpkin in soup is a wonderful thing! This ginger-pumpkin soup by Country Living yields a tasty, nutritious lunch or dinner idea that everyone is sure to love.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Waffles
These gluten-free pumpkin spice waffles by Cookie and Kate are super easy to make and a delightful breakfast treat. This recipe uses oat flour, pumpkin puree, and other delicious ingredients to create some delicious waffles!
Baked Oatmeal with Pumpkin and Bananas
This baked oatmeal with pumpkin and bananas by Skinny Taste is a delicious way to start any day! The oats, pumpkin, bananas, and pecans all come together to create a very tasty dish!
Pumpkin Fettuccine Alfredo
Here’s another unusual recipe that’s very delicious. This pumpkin fettuccine alfredo by Cookie and Kate is a dinner idea you need to try! It’s made with creamy pureed pumpkin to create a savory pasta everyone will love.
Pumpkin Yogurt Parfait
This pumpkin yogurt parfait from Cookin Canuck is delicious, nutritious, and takes only 10 minutes to prepare. Layered with granola, pumpkin puree, and greek yogurt, it makes for a great breakfast!
Roast Pumpkin and Kale Lasagna
Here’s yet another recipe that may seem a little weird, but this roast pumpkin and kale lasagna by Mountain Mama is super delicious and nutritious! You wouldn’t think these ingredients would merge well, but the pumpkin, kale, tomatoes, and provolone come together seamlessly to create a tasty, filling dinner.
Healthy Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is and always will be a fall staple! This healthy pumpkin bread by Cookie and Kate is delicious, gluten free, and vegan. Made with honey or maple syrup, whole wheat flour, and coconut oil, it’s the perfect dessert or snack.
Pumpkin No Bake Energy Bites
These pumpkin no bake energy bites from Gimme Some Oven make for an energizing, guilt-free snack, breakfast, or even dessert! They are packed with protein, super delicious, and can easily be made vegan by swapping agave for honey.
Enhance Your Meals With Our Healthy Seasoning!
One of the easiest ways to improve your health is by simply seasoning your meals with our delicious Aloha Pepper! In doing so, not only does the savory, peppery taste enhance your meals, but you’ll ingest loads of antioxidants and other nutrients that boost your overall health, improve your digestion and kidney health, and combat chronic diseases.
Order your Aloha Pepper today or contact us with any questions you may have!
