The cool fall weather heralds the arrival of Halloween, and with it comes the time-honored tradition of carving pumpkins. However, once the jack-o'-lantern smiles are lit and the spooky celebrations are over, many people wonder what to do with the seeds and carved pumpkins. Fear not, because we've put together a guide to not only carving pumpkins, but also making the most of every piece of this fall treasure! The Art of Pumpkin Carving Choosing the right pumpkin is the first step to successful carving. Look for one that is smooth, well-shaped, and looks like an orange canvas waiting for your creativity. Your tools are also important; a good carving kit will get you ready to carve scary faces quickly. And remember, safety first! Make sure your work area is stable and your hands steady. How long does a carved pumpkin last? Once your pumpkin has transformed into a glowing jack-o'-lantern, its lifespan becomes a countdown. On average, a carved pumpkin can last between 5 and 7 days, depending on a variety of factors. The environment plays a major role: cold, dry climates tend to preserve carved pumpkins longer, while warm, humid conditions can speed up the rotting process. To keep it fresh, spray it with a gentle bleach solution to prevent mold and store it in a cool, dry place. However, nature has its own process. When your pumpkin starts to droop, wilt, or show signs of mold, it's time to retire it from its Halloween duties. What to do with pumpkin seeds? The humble pumpkin seed is a treasure trove that’s often overlooked in the excitement of carving. Once you’ve carved your pumpkin, you’ll find a treasure trove of these seeds hiding inside. First, start by separating the seeds from the stringy flesh. A good tip for this process is to use a colander. Once you’ve separated the rinds, rinse the pumpkin thoroughly to remove any remaining pumpkin residue. Pat dry with a kitchen towel and you’re ready to move on to the next step. Now it’s time to add flavour. Mix the seeds with olive oil, salt and any other spices you like. Popular options include garlic powder, smoked paprika or, for those with a sweet tooth, a little cinnamon and sugar. Spread the seeds evenly on a baking tray, making sure they’re in a single layer so they toast evenly. Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and roast for 10-15 minutes, until golden brown and nicely crispy. Turn them halfway through to ensure they toast evenly. Once cooked, let cool and store in an airtight container. These toasted seeds make a great snack while watching your favorite Halloween movie or can be added to salads and soups for an extra crunch. Not only are they delicious, but pumpkin seeds are also rich in nutrients. They’re rich in magnesium, zinc, and fatty acids that are good for your heart, immune system, and help you get restful sleep. Halloween isn’t just about scary carvings; it’s about embracing the full experience. From carving your pumpkin to roasting the seeds, there’s so much fun and learning to be had. So when carving scary faces, remember that there’s more to a pumpkin than meets the eye.