Carve a Cooler

You don't have to light a candle in a pumpkin to make it the center of attention. This idea will transform that seasonal icon into the hit of your next party.  

Pumpkin Cooler
Cut top from a large, wide pumpkin using a serrated knife. Scoop out seeds and pulp. Line bottom and sides with a 2-gal. zip-top plastic bag. Fill bag with ice and assorted beverages.

Makes 1 cooler. Prep: 15 min.

• One large pumpkin yields about 1 cup of seeds, but don't throw them out. Season them instead. Rinse 1 cup fresh pumpkin seeds; pat dry with paper towels. Toss seeds with 1 Tbsp. olive oil, 1 Tbsp. dried ground thyme, and 1½ tsp. kosher salt; place in a single layer on a lightly greased baking sheet. Bake at 350° for 20 to 25 minutes or until toasted. Serve on top of a salad, or just enjoy them as a yummy snack. Makes 1 cup. Prep: 10 min., Bake: 25 min.

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