5 Ways To Cook Pumpkin

One of the things I love about fall is cooking with pumpkin.
I'm not a pumpkin spice latte girl, but I love this largely overlooked vegetable, which is incredibly rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Growing up in New Zealand pumpkin was a part of most roast dinners, and roasted pumpkin is still perhaps my favorite way to eat it.

Here are 5 ways to cook with fresh pumpkin

1. Roasted Pumpkin

Roast Pumpkin

The easiest way to make roasted pumpkin is to slice it, brush the slices with olive oil, sprinkle over some coarse sea salt, and put it in the oven.
You can also check out this recipe from Steamy Kitchen

2. Pumpkin Soup
I love thick, hearty pumpkin soup on cold, wet days.

Thai Pumpkin Soup

If you want to spice up a pumpkin soup, or make it more interesting, try this Thai inspired pumpkin soup recipe  from New Zealand chef Annabelle Langbein

3. Pumpkin Parmesan Risotto

Pumpkin Parmesan Risotto

Another hearty cold weather food is Pumpkin Parmesan Risotto.
Try this recipe

4. Warm Pumpkin and Chickpea Salad With Tahini

A lighter way to enjoy pumpkin is in this superfood salad.
It makes a fantastic weekend lunch option, as well as a great weeknight food. Check out this recipe for Warm Pumpkin and Chickpea salad

5. Pumpkin Layer Cake

Martha Stewart Pumpkin Layer Cake

I'm not much of a dessert person, but I love to cook and bake,
and this Pumpkin Layer Cake from Martha Stewart looks like a great fall after dinner treat, or a wonderful rainy afternoon snack.
Try the recipe here