Pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima / Cucurbita pepo) is a highly nutritious vegetable-fruit from the gourd family. It has a round or oval shape, smooth or ribbed skin that ranges from yellow to deep orange, and a mildly sweet, earthy-flavored flesh. Pumpkins are rich in beta-carotene, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, fiber, and minerals, making them both nutritious and versatile. They are widely used in soups, curries, desserts, bakery items, beverages, and seeds for snacks and oil extraction.