Pumpkins and Pepitas!

It's Halloween! That means pumpkin season, pumpkin soup, pumpkin beer, pumpkin muffins, smoothies, pie, bread...the possibilities are endless! This time of year we decorate our houses with them, smoother our front porches, and stuff our faces with these fall favorites.This year after you carve your pumpkin for the big night of trick or treating save your pumpkin seeds or "Pepitas" for a healthy snack when you've gotten sore teeth and an upset belly after all that candy. Pepitas are great for topping soups, salads or just snacking on them alone. They are loaded with antioxidants, amino acids, fiber, vitamins and minerals. They are high in protein, good fat, and Vitamin E. They boost your mood, lower bad cholesterol, and help fight free-radicals.As for all your pumpkins, although the pumpkins you carve aren't edible you can findedible pumpkins at your local produces stands, farmers markets, and grocery stores. There is so many recipes out there it's hard to choose just one. The benefits of pumpkins are endless. They are high in fiber, low in calories, loaded with vitamin A, and high in antioxidants. Pumpkins help improve your eye sight, boost your immune system, and fight cancer. They also help you to feel fuller and lose weight.Ready to try a new recipe with Pepitas or Pumpkins? Check out my recipes for both!PEPITAS:

• 1 pumpkin- seeds removed and rinsed
• 1 Tbsp of olive oil
• 1 Tbsp of old bay (seafood seasoning)

On a baking sheet, spray or spread olive oil over pan. Spread out pepitas. Sprinkle old bay over seeds and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.RAW PUMPKIN SOUP:

• 2 C of pumpkin
• 2 apples cored and diced
• 2 Tbsp of tahini
• 3/4 cup of almond milk
• 1 tsp of cinnamon
• 1 tsp of nutmeg

Add all ingredients into a higher powered blender and blend until completely smooth. Top with raw pepitas if you want a little crunch! Enjoy and Happy Halloween!