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"Freshly harvested green pumpkin leaves arranged on a wooden cutting board, perfect for healthy recipes."

🌿 Pumpkin Leaves: Nutrition, Health Benefits & How to Cook Them


  • Author: Janet
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 2–4 servings

Description

Pumpkin leaves are one of nature’s most underrated superfoods — tender, flavorful, and bursting with nutrients. Commonly enjoyed across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, they’re packed with vitamin A, C, iron, calcium, and more.


Ingredients

  • Fresh pumpkin leaves (young and tender)
  • Garlic cloves
  • Onions
  • Chili peppers (optional)
  • Salt
  • Water
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Wash pumpkin leaves thoroughly to remove dirt and fine hairs.
  2. Remove tough stalks and veins from older leaves.
  3. Blanch leaves in salted boiling water for 1–2 minutes, then cool in ice water.
  4. Heat oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions and garlic.
  5. Add chili if desired and stir-fry briefly.
  6. Add blanched pumpkin leaves and cook for 3–5 minutes.
  7. Season with salt to taste and serve as a side dish or main.

Notes

Choose young leaves for best texture. Blanching softens hairs and preserves vibrant color.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Global Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup cooked
  • Calories: 45
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 3g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: pumpkin leaves, leafy greens, superfood, stir-fry, healthy side dish