The Pumpkin: Fall’s Favorite Fruit

Is a pumpkin a fruit or a vegetable?
Believe it or not, pumpkins are a…fruit! Yes, it’s true. Pumpkins are a fruit. Pumpkins are a member of the vine crop family called cucurbita, which includes melons, cucumbers, squash and gourds. Technically speaking, pumpkins grow on a vine and contain seeds, fitting the definition of a fruit. Surprising, right? We agree. Keep reading for more surprising facts about this amazing “fruit”!

Pumpkin Nutrition
Pumpkins contain 90% water, are high in fiber and are nutrient rich. Pumpkins are rich with potassium, magnesium, vitamins A, C and E. The pumpkin packs a healthy dose of vitamins all while being low in calories!

Incredible, Edible Pumpkin Seeds
Crunchy and delicious, pumpkin seeds, in addition to being a fun, tasty snack offer many health benefits. They are full of anti-oxidants, fiber, minerals potassium, calcium, iron, selenium, manganese, and amino acids – tryptophan and glutamate. These little seeds pack quite a punch! An excellent source for a quick pick me up– add them to your favorite trail mix for a boost of protein and calories. Or try this recipe for roasted pumpkin seeds.

Store roasted pumpkin seeds in a mason jar for simple, fresh storage.

Can You Eat Pumpkin Leaves?
Eating pumpkins and their seeds are common and popular. But did you know that you can eat the pumpkin leaves too? Pumpkin leaves are nutritious and are sweet – a flavor profile that’s the combination of broccoli and spinach. The leaves are packed with iron, protein, calcium and vitamins A and C. Use the leaves in soups, stews and salads. They can be used similarly to swiss chard

Pumpkin Varieties – Small or Big, Orange or White Pumpkins!
There are many different types of pumpkins – they come in all different sizes and colors. Ranging in size from fitting in the palm of your hand to jumbo sized weighing up to 100 pounds! And their colors range from orange, green, blue, red and white. Pumpkins continue to grow in popularity not only for the variety of types, but also for the versatility they offer – from cooking to decor. For example, white pumpkins have become very popular, even ‘trendy’ – used as decorations in weddings, tablescapes and home decor.

Now that you know how nutritious pumpkins are – try to incorporate these elements into your family meals!