Pumpkin is a uniquely American delicacy. Although this specific type of winter squash is actually a fruit since it contains seeds, it boasts many of the beneficial nutritional qualities possessed by vegetables. Once you learn about these, you will want to incorporate this orange Thanksgiving favorite into your year-round cooking repertoire.
Pumpkin is low in calories at just 49 for one cup, and it’s packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B2, E and C, potassium, copper, manganese and iron. Since it is high in antioxidants, it helps your body to fight the damage caused by free radicals and works to lower inflammation levels. In short, this nutrient-dense food can be consumed in higher amounts because it is made up mostly of water. As a result, you can incorporate it into your weight loss plan. Like other carbs, it is filling and satisfying; however, unlike bread and potatoes, it packs fewer calories for its punch.
Perhaps best of all, pumpkins are very versatile. In addition to being the stars of the show for desserts such as pies and custards, you can easily include them in dishes like roasted vegetables, pastas and even in preparations such as pressure cooker pumpkin spice soup. Don’t let the idea of making soup in a pressure cooker scare you. Today’s models are extremely easy to use and safe. Furthermore, they can allow you to drastically cut cooking times while having the capability of preparing an entire meal in just one pot.
Don’t let the pumpkin’s tough skin and hard exterior fool you. With just a little elbow grease and a few minutes of scooping out the stringy parts and the yummy seeds that are delicious and nourishing in and of themselves, you can have the makings of a healthy, tasty meal. What are you waiting for?… Read the rest
