Fall is Here! Celebrate with Pumpkin, 5 Different Ways

Pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween! These versatile vegetables are an excellent source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. To demonstrate different ways you can incorporate this seasonal superstar, MyPlate is showcasing five easy recipes with pumpkin as the main ingredient.

MyPlate encourages you to make half your plate fruits and vegetables. People who eat more vegetables and fruits as part of an overall healthy diet are likely to have a reduced risk of some chronic diseases. Fruits and vegetables provide nutrients vital for the health and maintenance of your body. Pumpkins are full of color and are a great way to eat your veggies!

Try these recipes featuring pumpkin five different ways to add more vitamin A and dietary fiber to your menus:

• The Grab and Go Breakfast: Cranberry Pumpkin Muffins
  Bake up these muffins the night before and enjoy them with a glass of low-fat or fat-free milk for a delicious start to your day!
• The Refreshing Beverage: Pumpkin Smoothie
  Drink up the MyPlate way! One serving of this smoothie gives you 1/4 cup from the Vegetable Group, 1/4 cup from the Fruit Group, and 1/2 cup from the Dairy Group.
• The Simple Weeknight Dinner: Pumpkin and White Bean Soup
  Mashed beans plus pumpkin make this soup unique. Cook up a quick batch to enjoy on a busy weeknight.
• The Sweet Treat: Pumpkin Pudding
  Looking for a new dessert? Serve this pudding in small, festive cups for a great party treat.
• The Fun Family Breakfast: Perfect Pumpkin Pancakes
  Fall weekends are full of activities and events. Start out your day together with a delicious breakfast! Kids can help to measure and mix the ingredients in this simple recipe.

For more healthy recipes, check out www.WhatsCooking.fns.usda.gov, and learn more about the Vegetable Group at ChooseMyPlate.gov. Check back with us in November when we feature turkey five different ways!