Five Ways to Use Leftover Pumpkins After Halloween

While pumpkins tend to only serve one purpose on Halloween, that doesn't mean on the day after they have to be thrown away. This year don't trash your pumpkin leftovers; instead make something with them. Here are a few ideas of how to re-purpose your left over jack-o'-lantern after the 31st.

1. Make pumpkin puree:

Pumpkin puree is one of the most common uses for the fleshy insides of your left-over pumpkin, and it’s super easy to make! Start by cutting your pumpkin down the middle and scooping out the seeds and guts in a big bowl; set aside. Place your pumpkin, cut-side down on a baking dish with about a cup of water, and bake for about 90 minutes or until the flesh is tender. Then, simply scoop out the flesh and puree in a food processor.

2.  Make a pumpkin planter:

This idea is perfect of any left over jack-o'-lantern needing to be relocated from the front porch or door to the yard. If you pumpkin is uncarved, just cut the top off the pumpkin and remove all the seeds, flesh and guts from the inside. Once finished, head down to your local nursery and pick up some soil and annuals.  It will be a festive decoration for a few days, and then you can plant the whole thing right in the backyard. The pumpkin will naturally compost and provide fertilizer for your plant. If your pumpkin isn't carved, cut off the top and remove the seeds, guts and flesh from the inside. Simply pack some potting soil into your pumpkin until it is about one-third full. Then, place your plant into the pumpkin, and fill it out with more potting soil.You can dig a small hole and plant the whole thing right away, or leave it on the porch for a few days for decoration.The great thing about using a pumpkin, is the pumpkin will naturally compost and provide fertilizer for your plant when it begins to deteriorate.

3. Use the Pumpkin Guts:

While pumpkin guts may seem unappetizing and unappealing, they are actually a great for making pumpkin stock. Place the stringy pumpkin guts, minus the seeds, into a pot filled with boiling water. To add more flavor, add vegetable pieces, such as celery tips or carrot tops. Boil for about 30 minutes, or until the water begins to change color. Strain your pumpkin stock, reserving the broth and throwing your guts and vegetable pieces away. Pumpkin stock is perfect for adding flavor to soups or casseroles, and you can freeze any extra for later use.

4. Make Roasted Pumpkin Seeds:
This fall favorite will have everyone snuggled up by the fire. To make roasted pumpkin seeds, you first have to separate the seeds from the guts and rinse them off, thoroughly. Once finished rinsing, place them in a single layer on an oiled baking sheet and stir them around to coat them with oil.
To make classic roasted pumpkin seeds, add a little salt or for a sweeter treat use some cinnamon and brown sugar.

5. Make Pumpkin Serving Bowls:
Instead of letting your pumpkin shells hit the trash when your through, let them impress your guests at a dinner party. Turning your pumpkin shells into a festive serving bowl is simple and looks great for any fall occasion. Simply place your hollowed-out pumpkin on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and brush the insides and the tops with a little vegetable oil, and season as desired. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes, and serve with your favorite soups or dips for an elegant autumn twist.