Pumpkin Seed Puree

This morning with another deep frost in the air and young pumpkins transitioning colors on the ground, I was drawn to highlighting an unsung culinary hero. Pumpkin seeds have an earthy richness that lures me to utilizing and highlighting them.  Today we made a puree of pumpkin seeds with lime, jalapeno (of course) and candied ginger.  We balanced the earthiness of the puree with goat cheese gnocchi and caraway lacquered banana.  We added a final note of fruity umami with a tomato-pineapple chip.  The dish is simple and straightforward, inspired by the elements around us.