How to Cook Green Pumpkins
on May 30, 2023, Updated Nov 20, 2023
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When you think of a pumpkin, your brain probably conjures up images of the bright orange fruits that are carved into jack-o-lanterns every October. You may be surprised to learn that there are several varieties of Green Pumpkins that can be used to make unique and delicious dishes.
When used to describe pumpkins, the word “green” can mean one of two things. It can be used to refer to an immature, unripe pumpkin that will gradually change to orange in due course.
However, there are many types of pumpkin that will remain green even when they’re ripe and ready to eat. When sliced open, these ripe, green-skinned pumpkins typically have soft, orange flesh. Unripe green pumpkins tend to have very firm flesh and can be used as a substitute for zucchini in many recipes.
Both unripe and ripe green pumpkins can offer a new and exciting culinary experience. Although they’re not as popular as their orange counterparts, they offer a unique flavor and texture that can add a fun twist to your favorite pumpkin recipes. Don’t be afraid to pick one up during your next trip to the farmer’s market!
Can You Eat Green Pumpkin?
Unripe, green pumpkins are edible and are used in a variety of tasty dishes across multiple cuisines. In Croatia, unripe pumpkins are combined with fresh herbs and vegetables to make a nourishing soup. Unripe pumpkins can also be used (in a similar way to zucchinis) to make gluten-free bread.
With some varieties of green-skinned pumpkin, you may cut it open to find orange flesh. In this case, you’ll find that the flesh tastes just as delicious as the orange-skinned pumpkin you may be accustomed to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- pumpkin
- olive oil
- garlic powder
- dried rosemary (optional)
- salt
- black pepper
(Note: Full recipe is at the bottom of the post)
How to Cook Green Pumpkin
- Preheat the oven to 400°F, placing the oven rack in the upper middle position. Turn on the convection or forced air if available.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment and set aside.
- Using a chef’s knife, slice the pumpkin vertically into ½-inch thick pieces, removing the seeds and pith as you go.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, optional rosemary, garlic powder, salt and pepper
- Arrange the pumpkin pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each piece generously with the olive oil mixture.
- Roast for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Remove from the oven. Serve warm, spooning any pan juices on top for extra flavor.
What Do Green Pumpkins Taste Like?
Unripe green pumpkins have quite a mild taste and a firm texture. They’re not as sweet as ripe pumpkins and they definitely won’t be as soft. Some liken the taste and texture to that of an unripe banana or a zucchini.
What Can I Do with a Green Pumpkin Squash?
Green pumpkins can be used in a variety of tasty ways. Like zucchini, unripe pumpkins can be used to make gluten-free baked goods like bread or muffins. Green pumpkins can also be cooked into soups, stews, curries and other plant-based dishes. Due to their mild taste, be sure to use up your seasonings and spices when cooking with green pumpkins.
How to Store Leftover Green Pumpkins
Cooked green pumpkin will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It does not freeze well, however.
Green Pumpkin FAQ
Do Pumpkins Start Out Green?
No matter the variety, all pumpkins are green when they’re immature and unripe. The fruit gradually changes color as it ripens and the final color will depend on the type of pumpkin. The most popular variety is the orange pumpkin, but others will turn yellow, red or even blue! Some pumpkins will remain green even when they’re ripe.
Difference Between Green and Orange Pumpkins
When people hear the phrase “green pumpkin” they usually mean an orange pumpkin that hasn’t fully ripened yet. However, “green” doesn’t always mean unripe. Certain types of pumpkin (including the Shamrock, Marina di Chioggia and Kabocha) keep their green skin even when they’re ready for harvest. These ripe, green pumpkins tend to have a similar flavor and texture to the orange pumpkins you know and love.
Types of Green Pumpkins (Green Pumpkin Varieties)
There are many types of green pumpkins cultivated all over the world.
Some (like the Marina di Chioggia) are fully green on the outside, while others (such as the Italian Stripe) are green with yellow or orange stripes. The Crespo pumpkin is a Peruvian variety that features bright green skin with a bumpy texture.
Popular Green Pumpkin Recipes
- Kabocha Squash Soup (Green Pumpkin Soup)
- Green Pumpkin Bhaji/Sabji
- Green Pumpkin Fry
- Green Pumpkin Pie
Roasted Green Pumpkins Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pound pumpkin, scrubbed clean
- ½ cup olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, optional (or 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F, placing the oven rack in the upper middle position. Turn on the convection or forced air if available.
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment and set aside.
- Using a chef’s knife, slice the pumpkin vertically into ½-inch thick pieces, removing the seeds and pith as you go.
- In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, optional rosemary, garlic powder, salt and pepper
- Arrange the pumpkin pieces on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each piece generously with the olive oil mixture.
- Roast for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Remove from the oven. Serve warm, spooning any pan juices on top for extra flavor.
Nutrition
Nutrition information provided is an estimate only and will vary based on ingredient brands and cooking methods used.
