Unexpected Ways to Use Pumpkin

One of the things I love about fall is pumpkin – especially pumpkin pie and pumpkin bars. Today, however, I want to challenge you to think beyond these old favorites and try some unexpected ways to use pumpkin. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

While pumpkin easily stars in sweet desserts, did you know that it can also play a leading role in savory dishes? Fall soups are a great way to make use of pumpkin. If you like Southwestern flavors, you’ll love this Spicy Pumpkin Soup. For fun, you can serve the soup in small, hollowed-out pumpkins. We’ll show you how in the blog, Cooking Pumpkin: Take the Pumpkin Challenge. As you’ll see, this soup recipe is really adaptable to your tastes – variations include Harvest Pumpkin Soup for more traditional flavor, Thai Pumpkin Soup if you like Asian flavors, or Pumpkin Curry Soup for a taste of India.

One of the Test Kitchen favorites is Pasta & Chicken in Pumpkin Cream Sauce. This recipe uses fresh garlic and sage, two flavors that pair well with pumpkin.

For a new twist on a classic, it’s hard to beat Pumpkin Seed Brittle with Sea Salt that substitutes roasted and salted pumpkin seeds for traditional peanuts. A sprinkle of sea salt on the top makes it irresistible.

And if you’re hosting a Halloween party, here are two recipes that will fly off the table. Creamy Pumpkin Dip is an easy dip that is a hit with kids and adults – use “dippers” like gingersnaps, graham crackers or sliced apples.

Lastly, this Pecan Pumpkin Pie Fudge is a creamy, classic-style fudge. Make two batches – one to serve and one for making up small packages as surprise take-home gifts for your Halloween party guests. How fun is that?

Let us know what you think of these unexpected ways to use pumpkin this fall!