Pumpkin fries: The tasty, healthy twist to classic snacks

In addition to being rich in vitamins A, C, and E, pumpkin also has a delicate, slightly sweet taste that pairs well with various spices. Its soft texture after roasting makes pumpkin fries crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are perfect for those who want to try something other than classic potato or sweet potato fries while also enjoying a healthy and light meal.

Pumpkin fries are lighter, easy to prepare, and full of nutritional value, making them perfect for a quick meal, snack, or as an addition to main dishes.

Ingredients:

• 1 small Hokkaido pumpkin (or butternut squash)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Pumpkin fries are a lighter alternative to traditional fries because pumpkin has a lower carbohydrate and calorie content. They're also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and provides many valuable vitamins. Pumpkin's delicate flavor pairs perfectly with spices, allowing you to customize them to your preference.

Preparation:

        
1. Wash the pumpkin thoroughly, peel it (if you're using butternut squash; Hokkaido can be baked with the skin), and cut it into sticks about 0.4 inches thick.
2. In a bowl, mix the olive oil with the spices: smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
3. Toss the cut pumpkin fries into the bowl and mix thoroughly to coat all pieces with the spices.
4. Place the fries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring the pieces don't touch each other.
5. Bake in an oven preheated to 400°F for about 20-25 minutes until the fries are golden and crispy on the edges.

Additional Tips:

  
• Pumpkin fries taste best when served warm, straight from the oven. You can serve them with your favorite sauces, such as a garlic yogurt dip or homemade ketchup.
• To make the fries even crispier, consider turning on the convection or grill function in the oven for a few minutes at the end of baking.

Pumpkin is a vegetable worth including in your diet because of its numerous nutritional benefits. It's low in calories but rich in fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. Pumpkin contains significant amounts of vitamin A, which supports eye health and skin health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity. Pumpkin also provides antioxidants that protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. Thanks to its delicate taste and versatility in the kitchen, pumpkin is a great addition to many dishes, from soups to healthy snacks like fries.