Here it is: the first pumpkin recipe of the season. Expect many more. This smoothie literally takes like pumpkin pie filling. Since this is my very first recipe with pumpkin on the blog, let’s talk about the health benefits. Just like carrots, a single cup of pumpkin contains 200% of your recommended daily intake of Vitamin A, which means it helps keep your eyes healthy and sharp. It also contains a good amount of vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system. Pumpkin can aid in weight loss/management because it’s full of fiber, which helps to keep you feeling full for longer. Research shows that the beta-carotene in pumpkin may help to ward off cancer. The versatile orange vegetable is also amazing to consume after a hard workout, as it contains more re-fueling potassium than a banana. This is why my pumpkin protein smoothie should be your new post workout snack of choice. It has both pumpkin AND banana, which makes it twice as fabulous. Do I even need to mention that it tastes absolutely delicious?
Note: As with any smoothie, I also like to have this for breakfast! It’s super fast to make and nutritious to boot. This recipe can be easily doubled for two servings.
Active Time: 5 minutes Total Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Ingredients: 1 banana, frozen ½ cup canned pumpkin (NOT pie filling) 1 tablespoon cinnamon ½ teaspoon nutmeg pinch of ginger 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (I use Perfect Fit) ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a high-powered blender and process until smooth and creamy.
Nutrition Information per serving:
Calories: 301 Fat: 1g Carbs: 57g Protein: 18g Sodium: 129mg Sugar: 31g
*Nutrition information is based on the products I used personally in this recipe. Different products may yield slightly different information.
