5 Ways to Reuse and Recycle Your Pumpkins

Wondering what to do with your pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns now that Halloween has come and gone? Here are five ways to repurpose October’s hottest outdoor accessory into something new for November.

If the pumpkin has been carved it isn’t edible. Instead, you can turn it around so the frightening face is now on the back of the pumpkin’and use the shell as a planter for your annual flowers.
Make pumpkin puree with any uncarved pumpkins. Simply cut the pumpkin down the middle and remove the insides and seeds (set aside for later). Place the pumpkin, cut-side down, in a baking dish with a cup of water and bake at 375°F degrees for 90 minutes, or until the flesh is tender (baking time will depend on the size of the pumpkin). Then, scoop out the roasted insides and process them in a food processor, making a puree to use in your favourite pumpkin recipes.
Use the aforementioned seeds to make a healthy, nutritious snack to combat all that candy the kids have consumed.
Turn small pumpkins into festive serving dishes by placing your hollowed-out pumpkin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the insides and tops with a little olive oil and bake at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes, then use them to serve your favourite seasonal soup, pumpkin-based pasta, or risotto. They’ll add a festive element to the table and can be tossed into the compost when dinner is done.
If you live in a rural area, break the pumpkin into pieces and leave it out for the deer or other wild animals to eat.