Cooked Pumpkin
Vegetables
Nutri-ScoreA

Cooked Pumpkin

Cucurbita pepo

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Cooked Pumpkin provides 45 kcal, 1g of protein, 10g of carbohydrates, and 2g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Cooked pumpkin is a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. It is low in calories and high in water content, making it an excellent choice for hydration and weight management.

Also known as:
Pumpkin pureeBaked pumpkin
Scientific NameCucurbita pepo
Region of OriginNorth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories45 kcal
Water
92%
Fiber2g
Total11.1g
Protein
1g(9%)
Fats
0.1g(1%)
Carbohydrates
10g(90%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A850 µg (94%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 1.1 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Potassium340 mg (10%)
Magnesium18 mg (4%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in antioxidants, cooked pumpkin helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
High in fiber, it promotes digestive health and regularity.
Contains beta-carotene, which supports eye health and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Low in calories and high in water content, making it a great food for weight management.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to high fiber content.
!Individuals with certain allergies may experience reactions.

How to Prepare & Consume

Cooked pumpkin can be steamed, boiled, or roasted. It is best consumed without added sugars or excessive fats to maintain its health benefits.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose pumpkins that are firm, heavy for their size, and have a smooth, unblemished skin. Avoid any with soft spots or signs of decay.

How to Store

Store whole pumpkins in a cool, dry place. Once cooked, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Myths vs Realities

MythPumpkin is only for Halloween.
RealityPumpkin is a nutritious vegetable that can be enjoyed year-round in various dishes.
MythAll pumpkins are the same.
RealityThere are many varieties of pumpkins, each with different flavors and nutritional profiles.
MythPumpkin is high in sugar.
RealityCooked pumpkin contains natural sugars but is low in calories and high in fiber.

Healthy Recipes

Pumpkin Quinoa Salad

A nutritious salad combining cooked pumpkin with protein-packed quinoa, fresh greens, and a zesty dressing for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pumpkin, cubed
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pumpkin, quinoa, and mixed greens.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad, toss gently, and top with feta cheese before serving.

Spiced Pumpkin Soup

A creamy and comforting soup made with cooked pumpkin, coconut milk, and warming spices, perfect for chilly days.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked pumpkin
  • 1 can coconut milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
  2. 2. Add cooked pumpkin, coconut milk, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
  3. 3. Blend until smooth and serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs.

Pumpkin and Chickpea Curry

A hearty and flavorful curry featuring cooked pumpkin and chickpeas, simmered in a rich tomato sauce with aromatic spices.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cooked pumpkin, cubed
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon curry powder
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  2. 2. Add cooked pumpkin, chickpeas, diced tomatoes, curry powder, and salt, cooking for 15 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve hot over brown rice or quinoa.

Pumpkin Oatmeal Bowl

A warm and filling breakfast bowl made with oats, cooked pumpkin, and topped with nuts and seeds for added crunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 2 cups almond milk
  • 1 cup cooked pumpkin
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, combine oats and almond milk, cooking over medium heat until thickened.
  2. 2. Stir in cooked pumpkin and maple syrup, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve topped with walnuts and chia seeds.

Pumpkin Hummus

A delightful twist on traditional hummus, this recipe blends cooked pumpkin with chickpeas and tahini for a creamy dip.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pumpkin
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 1/4 cup tahini
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine cooked pumpkin, chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water if necessary for desired consistency.
  3. 3. Serve with fresh veggies or whole-grain pita.

Pumpkin and Black Bean Tacos

These vibrant tacos are filled with seasoned cooked pumpkin and black beans, topped with avocado and fresh cilantro.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pumpkin, diced
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, combine cooked pumpkin, black beans, cumin, and chili powder, cooking until heated through.
  2. 2. Warm corn tortillas in a separate pan.
  3. 3. Fill tortillas with the pumpkin mixture, top with avocado slices and cilantro, and serve.

Pumpkin Smoothie

A creamy and nutritious smoothie that blends cooked pumpkin with banana, yogurt, and spices for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pumpkin
  • 1 banana
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine cooked pumpkin, banana, Greek yogurt, almond milk, cinnamon, and honey.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Pumpkin Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of cooked pumpkin, rice, and spices, baked to perfection.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved
  • 2 cups cooked pumpkin, mashed
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix cooked pumpkin, rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the mixture into halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake for 25-30 minutes.

Pumpkin Energy Bites

These no-bake energy bites are packed with nutrients, combining cooked pumpkin with oats, nut butter, and seeds for a healthy snack.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked pumpkin
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup almond butter
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix cooked pumpkin, oats, almond butter, honey, pumpkin seeds, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  2. 2. Roll the mixture into small balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Enjoy as a quick snack or energy boost.

Pumpkin and Spinach Frittata

A protein-rich frittata made with eggs, cooked pumpkin, and fresh spinach, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients
  • 6 eggs
  • 1 cup cooked pumpkin, diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil and sauté spinach until wilted.
  3. 3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, add cooked pumpkin, feta, salt, and pepper, then pour over spinach in the skillet.
  4. 4. Cook on the stovetop for 2 minutes, then transfer to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is cooked pumpkin good for weight loss?

Yes, cooked pumpkin is low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied.

Can I eat pumpkin seeds?

Yes, pumpkin seeds are nutritious and provide healthy fats, protein, and minerals.

How do I store cooked pumpkin?

Store cooked pumpkin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Is pumpkin high in carbohydrates?

Cooked pumpkin has moderate carbohydrate content, primarily from natural sugars and fiber.

Can I freeze cooked pumpkin?

Yes, cooked pumpkin can be frozen for up to 6 months. Ensure it is in an airtight container.

What are the health benefits of pumpkin?

Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting eye health, immune function, and digestion.

How can I incorporate cooked pumpkin into my diet?

You can add cooked pumpkin to soups, stews, smoothies, or use it as a filling for pies and pastries.

Is pumpkin safe for dogs?

Yes, plain cooked pumpkin is safe for dogs and can aid in digestion.