Great spooky lanterns and the best ingredient. In today’s post, we’re talking about the spookiest part of Halloween: the millions of pumpkins turned into Jack-o’-Lanterns that go to waste. Every year, around 17 million pumpkins are bought for Halloween, with 80% landing in landfills, which end up decomposing and releasing methane that has 20 times the warming effect of carbon dioxide. Amongst those pumpkins thrown away, many have been painted with harmful chemicals to the earth or decorated with candles, making them both harmful to wildlife if eaten and to our soil when decomposed.

So, this Halloween, don’t let your Jack-o’-Lantern’s insides go to waste! Pumpkins are super versatile; every part can be transformed into a tasty treat. Check out some delicious ideas to make the most of your pumpkin’s insides:

Pumpkin Puree for Baking

No more throwing the flesh from your lantern out! Simply remove the seeds and make the most delicious and versatile puree. Roast the flesh of your pumpkin until soft, then blend until smooth. You can use it in muffins, pancakes, soups, smoothies, or homemade pasta sauce. Plus, it’s great to freeze it for later!

Pumpkin Spice Smoothies

Yum! Who doesn’t love it when the season of pumpkin spice starts! The best part of it is that it’s super simple! Just add:

• 1 cup of milk of your choice
• 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
• sweetener to choice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• 1/4 vanilla
• 1/4 nutmeg

Combine all ingredients into a saucepan and simmer on low.

There you go! Add this pumpkin-spiced puree to your smoothies for a creamy autumn twist. Blend with bananas, a splash of oat milk, cinnamon, and honey for a deliciously spiced boost.

Pumpkin Butter

Combine your pumpkin puree with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt, then cook it on low heat until thickened into a paste. Spread it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or use it as a dip for apple slices – a delicious fall-inspired treat!

Homemade Pumpkin Hummus

Blend roasted pumpkin flesh with chickpeas, garlic, tahini, and a squeeze of lemon juice for the perfect seasonal twist on classic hummus. Enjoy it with a pita or some veggie sticks.

Extra tip: Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

A Halloween and autumn classic! Rinse, dry, and toss your pumpkin seeds with a little olive oil, salt, and spices (smoked paprika and salt are my favorites!). Roast at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through for a crunchy snack.

This Halloween, consider decorating the outside of your pumpkin only and enjoy the insides for a delicious autumn recipe!

Let’s reduce our waste. One pumpkin and holiday decoration at a time.