In this section, Cool Springs' staff members make recommendations for kitchen concoctions you can try at home. Some recipes contain wine or spirits. Some are just paired with wine or spirits. In all cases, we promise palate-pleasing dishes that will (hopefully) inspire you to share it with others. Let us know what you think...
Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Roasted pumpkin seeds have a nutty flavor and are packed with protein and fiber. Pumpkin seeds are delicious toasted and salted, but they're even better flavored with sweet and savory spices. This great fall nibble would be perfect with slightly sweet Yalumba Riesling with it's off-dry finish,
($11.99 at Cool Springs
Wine & Spirits).
How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds
1. Rinse pumpkin seeds under cold water and pick out the pulp and strings. (This is easiest just after you have removed the seeds from the pumpkin, before the pulp has dried).
2. Place the pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a oiled baking sheet, stirring to coat. If you prefer omit the oil and cook with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Sprinkle with salt and bake at 325 degrees F until toasted, about 25 minutes, checking and stirring after 10 minutes.
4. Let cool and store in air-tight container.
Why Carve Pumpkins?
The story of the Jack O'Lantern comes from Irish folklore. Jack was a crafty farmer who tricked the Devil into climbing a tall tree. When the Devil reached the highest branch, Jack carved a large cross in the trunk, making it impossible for the Devil to climb down. In exchange fo help getting out of the tree, the Devil promised never to tempt Jack with evil again. When Jack died, he was turned away from Heaven for his sins and turned away from Hell because of his trickery. Condemned to wander the Earth without rest, Jack carved out one of his turnips, took an ember from the Devil, and used it for a lantern to light his way. He became known as "Jack of the Lantern"
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