Thursday, October 27, 2011

Jack-O-Lanterns with a bigger purpose....FOOD!

Happy Halloween!!
Our family has an annual tradition of carving a pumpkin every Halloween.  Yet, every year I battle with the idea of “wasting” money when I could be using that pumpkin for some yummy food!!   

So…if you struggle with that “waste not, want not” feeling, consider harvesting the seeds from the pumpkin for snacks!! 

Instead of putting the pumpkin innards directly into the garbage can, place the seeds & pulp into a bowl.  (Truth be told…I like carving the pumpkin, NOT “gutting” the pumpkin….)  When the “carving” is done, put the seeds in a clean sink full of cold water.  Many will float, while the slimy stuff will sink.  You will still have to dislodge many of them…but in the cold water it is significantly easier.  My children like to be in charge of “fishing” out the seeds and placing them on a cookie sheet.  Let them dry overnight…or for a couple of days if you are too busy.   
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
1.       Rinse the seeds to separate them from the stringy pulp. 
2.       Pat dry. 
3.       Toss lightly with olive oil and salt.
4.       Bake at 350 ˚F for 20-25 min. or until slightly puffed and golden.

 Happy Stretching Pennies…AND enjoyable holidays for less!

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