Benefits of Pumpkin: Alpha-carotene (helps the body produce Vitamin A, which helps our vision and immune function), Beta-carotene (reverses skin damage from the sun), Fiber, Vitamins C and E, Potassium (energy production and controls blood pressure), Magnesium (helps the body with so much – bone strength, normalizing heart function, etc.), Pantothenic Acid (helps body manage stress).

Raw Vegan Pumpkin Soup [serves 4]

• 3 cups raw pumpkin or butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen (and thawed) yellow corn
• 3/4 cups diced red bell pepper
• 2 1/2 cups fresh apple juice
• 2 1/2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced
• 2 1/2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 cup mashed avocado
• 2 teaspoons raw pumpkin seeds for garnish
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped, for garnish
• In a high speed blender, combine pumpkin, corn, red bell pepper, apple juice, ginger, garlic, salt and avocado. Process for several minutes, until smooth. (If too thick, add more apple juice). Divide into 4 soup bowls and garnish with raw pumpkin seeds and fresh thyme.