To microwave a whole pumpkin: Pierce the pumpkin all over with a fork. Wash and place in a glass dish such as a pie plate that has sides. (Water collects during cooking) Cover with plastic wrap. Allow 6-7 minutes per pound, or about 20 minutes for pie size pumpkins. Cook at High power. Rotate during cooking every 5 minutes. After cooking, the pumpkin's skin should peel away easily and the pulp should be tender but not mushy.
To microwave pumpkin seeds: Spread 1 cup of cleaned, washed pumpkin seeds evenly in a glass pie plate. Sprinkle with salt if desired, and a teaspoon of oil. Microwave on High for 5-7 minutes, stirring every minute or two until crisp. Best if eaten while hot.
