PUMPKIN PASTA

It's autumn, and we finally have pumpkins. When I was in Vietnam, I didn't have a "seasonal food" concept. Perhaps it's because we have such a variety of vegetables and fruits that you don't miss anything if they're unavailable for a few months. Living in Italy is different. We have seasonal vegetables, and during transitional periods, like between summer and autumn, options are limited because summer produce is finished and autumn produce isn't ready or is too expensive. So, you can imagine my delight when I saw butternut squash back in the supermarkets. I was so excited that I asked my husband to drive to a local food store to hand-select pumpkins. The trick to choosing the best ones is to weigh them with your hands—the heavier, the better! A farmer taught me this years ago. Of course, I love to hand-pick the food myself! Any food lover can relate to this, I think. But then the lady at the store told me, "No, you can't touch the products; I will pick them for you. They are all perfect." What? Your prices are higher, and I'm not allowed to pick pumpkins and sweet potatoes myself? No! I was not happy and won't be going back there again. I know, I'm hard to please. 🙃

Before we start, I wanna share the top 3 health benefits of pumpkins! 
1. Rich in Nutrients: Pumpkins are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fibre. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, while vitamin C supports the immune system.

2. High in Antioxidants: Pumpkins contain antioxidants like beta-carotene, which can help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting overall health.

3. Supports Heart Health: The fibre, potassium, and vitamin C content in pumpkins contribute to heart health. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure, while fibre can lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
In addition, pumpkins are relatively low in calories compared to potatoes. A 100-gram serving of cooked pumpkin contains approximately 20-26 calories, while the same serving size of cooked potatoes contains about 77 calories. This makes pumpkin a lower-calorie option, which can be beneficial for those looking to manage their calorie intake while still enjoying a nutritious and filling food.