Tuesday?s Cupful: Pumpkin

The fruits of a gourd-like vine, pumpkins are usually orange, yellow, or white in color when mature. Ridges or creases run from the stem to the bottom of each individual fruit. The plant is a member squash family (Cucurbitaceae), and pumpkins mature in late summer or early autumn. The word pumpkin comes from the Greek word meaning ?large melon.? Pumpkins have a thick skin and a thick wall of flesh. The seeds and pulp (usually scooped out) are found in the center. Select a pumpkin that has an even color on all sides. Avoid pumpkins that have bruises, tender spots, or mold. The best place to buy a fresh pumpkin is right from the farmer and an open pumpkin patch. Some farmers allow customers to walk through and select pumpkins right off the vine. Or, purchase a pumpkin from a farmer?s stand or at a farmers? market. Of course, pumpkins are also available at major grocery stores; however, these have been off the vine the longest. Canned pumpkin is available year around. Eat pumpkins for a healthy dose of antioxidants, such as carotenoids that help prevent cell damage. Pumpkins can be used in sweet and savory dishes. How about spinach-stuffed pumpkins?