Pumped Up Pumpkin

Pumpkins aren’t just for decorating! Belonging to the squash family, pumpkins are an undervalued yummy and nutritious ingredient. Even if you’re too intimidated like me to use fresh pumpkin, canned pumpkin is just as nutritious and available year round. Its deep orange hue advertises its high beta carotene content (a form of vitamin A), the same nutrient found in carrots. Beta carotene is an antioxidant that helps fight off certain components that may damage cells, sometimes leading to cancer. Pumpkin also contains fiber, vitamin A, and minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium. Vitamin A helps promote a strong immune system and benefits your vision. Below are two easy delish ways to use pumpkin, great for the holidays or whenever else!

Pumpkin Potato Mash

Ingredients

5 medium Idaho potatoes, peeled and cubed

15 oz canned pumpkin

1/4 c evaporated skim milk

1-2 T soft margarine (optional)

Salt to taste

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, cover potatoes with water. Bring to boil and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
2. In same saucepan, heat evaporated skim milk just until warm. Add potatoes and pumpkin.
3. Mash with a potato masher or blend on medium speed of a hand blender until mixture is smooth.
4. Mix in margarine and salt if desired.

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Ingredients

1 c graham cracker crumbs, crushed

8 oz reduced fat cream cheese, softened slightly at room temperature

14 oz can sweetened condensed milk

15 oz canned pumpkin

3/4 cup egg substitute or 3 eggs

1 T orange juice

1 t pumpkin pie spice

1 t vanilla extract

1/4 t salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Spread graham crumbs over bottom of 9-inch springform pan and spray with cooking spray. Press crumbs firmly down. Set aside.
3. In large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Slowly beat in sweetened condensed milk, then the rest of the ingredients.
4. Pour pumpkin mixture into pan and bake for about 1 hour or until cake springs back when lightly touched in center.