Select and Prep Step 1

3. First, select a good one. Look for a deep, rich, uniform color—no green or light tan spot where it rested on the ground—and a healthy, stiff stem. Avoid any pumpkin with soft spots. Farmers' markets will usually yield the freshest options.

4. Then prep it. Keep clicking for cooking ideas.

Step 1: Place pumpkin on a steady surface, stem side up. Use a small knife to cut around the stem, about 2 inches out.