Though they’re well used in the US and UK for making scary lanterns to light up doorsteps every Halloween, poor pumpkins seem to get ignored when it comes to cooking. But, if you haven’t already, you’re about to fall in love with this underrated vegetable!
A great source of fiber, as well as many minerals and vitamins, pumpkins are also rather versatile. They can be used in place of other squash vegetables, and they also work great in many sweet treats.
Whether you get a whole pumpkin, a can of pumpkin puree, or use the flesh from your pumpkin lantern this Halloween, now’s the perfect time to try out this wonderful vegetable in a recipe or two. Below, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best to get you started!
1. Pumpkin Macaroni Cheese
You might never guess it, but pumpkin can make a great base for a creamy cheese sauce. This is a vegan Halloween twist on the classic Mac ‘n’ Cheese that’s as delicious as the original – and healthier!
- Try our Pumpkin Macaroni Cheese
2. Cheesy Pumpkin Ravioli
Pumpkin and cashews are combined together in this recipe to make a deliciously creamy, cheesy filling for some simple ravioli.
- Try PETA’s Cheesy Pumpkin Ravioli
3. Easy Creamy Buffalo Sage Pumpkin Lasagna
In this recipe, pumpkin is used to create a puree that adds creaminess to this indulgent yet nutritious lasagna. A great twist on the classic Italian dish, this is sure to get you going back for seconds.
- Try our Easy Creamy Buffalo Sage Lasagna
4. Pumpkin Hummus
If it’s a talking point for your Halloween party you’re looking for, this pumpkin hummus is perfect! Served up in the gutted pumpkin, it’s an ideal accompaniment to some fresh veg crudités.
- Try Loving It Vegan’s Pumpkin Hummus
5. Pumpkin Pasta with Spinach and Sundried Tomatoes
There’s nothing more comforting on an autumn night than a big bowl of pasta! The creamy sauce combined with sundried tomatoes and vegan sausage will make this dish an instant favorite.
- Try Make It Dairy-Free’s Pumpkin Pasta with Spinach and Sundried Tomatoes
6. Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
Combining two of the most delicious sweet treats, this cheesecake brownie hybrid is truly exceptional. With a hit of pumpkin in every bite, this is a wonderful Halloween spin on a classic brownie.
- Try Jessica in the Kitchen’s Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl Brownies
7. Pumpkin and Chickpea Burgers
This easy veggie burger recipe is ideal for using up leftover pumpkin and a great way of creating a burger that’s a little bit different from the regular bean burgers.
- Try Vegan Recipe Club’s Pumpkin and Chickpea Burgers
8. Traditional Irish Pumpkin Brack
Another recipe that utilizes the sweetness of this wonderful vegetable, is a vegan take on the traditional Irish Barmbrack (or tea loaf). Barmbrack is typically eaten at Halloween time, so including pumpkin in the mix just makes sense!
- Try our Irish Pumpkin Brack
