Carving Out New Ideas for Pumpkins

When one thinks of autumn, pumpkins always come to mind. They are quintessential symbols of the season and using them in interesting ways can add the right ambiance to any autumnal celebration. Their versatility ranges from décor to crafts to menu options. Here are five ways to enjoy pumpkins this fall. 

1. Roasted pumpkin seeds: a treat that everyone loves. It’s fun to create new variations on this seasonal favorite such as Creole, jerk, pumpkin-pie and Hamptons sea salt – all of which my family loves! Simply toss clean, dry seeds with olive oil and your favorite spices. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes or until golden brown, in a preheated oven (300 degrees F., 150 C.).
2. Potato-Crusted Halibut with Squash Two Ways and Arugula Pesto: this is my absolute favorite squash recipe by chef Gabriel Kennedy featured in Hamptons Entertaining. Roasted squash and squash puree make the best of autumn’s bounty. When I prepare this, I opt for cod instead of Halibut and when in season, roast pumpkin instead of squash; the results are delicious every time.
3. Pumpkin-Spiced Crème Brulée: one of my all-time favorite pumpkin desserts, it’s truly autumn in every bite! Try Judith Giulian’s recipe, featured in Hamptons Entertaining.
4. Place Cards: Create a unique place card by perching a mini pumpkin at each place setting; and with a silk ribbon, attach a tag to each stem and write your guests’ name on the tag.
5. Scooped out pumpkins: To repurpose pumpkins, the Giuliani’s used small, scooped out pumpkins as soup bowls. What a special way to elevate the everyday. For table decoration, I like to add a glass vase into a medium sized scooped out pumpkin and fill it with fresh flowers.

As fall breezes into town and it is time to go pumpkin picking, keep in mind that they can be used for more than just carving!