Dinner in a Pumpkin

Ingredients

• 1 large pumpkin
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound of sausage (vegan if desired)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 cups of mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 cup of cooked white rice
• 1/4 cup of shredded cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 F.
2. Cut the top off the pumpkin and scoop out the seeds and strings.
3. Rub the inside of the pumpkin with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large skillet, cook the sausage, onions, garlic, and mushrooms until the sausage is cooked through.
5. Add the oregano, basil, and cooked rice and stir to combine.
6. Carefully spoon the stuffing mixture into the pumpkin.
7. Place the top of the pumpkin back on and place the pumpkin in a baking dish.
8. Bake for 1 hour or until the pumpkin is tender.
9. If desired, top with the shredded cheese and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
10. Serve immediately.

Interesting Facts

• Pumpkins are a great source of vitamin A and fiber.
• If you don't have a large pumpkin, you can use two smaller pumpkins.
• This dish can be served as a vegetarian meal by leaving out the sausage.
• This dish can be served as a vegan meal by leaving out the sausage and cheese.