by Kristin Stephens, MS, NTP
Fall is in the air! And that can mean only one thing…pumpkin spice everything!!
Don’t just relegate pumpkin to your morning beverage or your fall dessert, you can easily use pumpkin puree in soups, sauces, and even in your smoothie.
Although I’m not a PSL (pumpkin spice latte) fan, I still love the warm, comforting flavor of pumpkin spice, and love to add it in wherever I can. Thus, I created this healthy and delicious, creamy Pumpkin Spice Green Smoothie for you.
Although our culture seems to believe that pumpkin is merely just a vehicle for sugar intake via pumpkin pie or the PSL, it’s actually very nutritious. Rich in alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, it is an antioxidant powerhouse. It’s also loaded with fiber, which helps keep your digestive system moving right along.
Let us know in the comments your favorite way to use pumpkin. We’re always looking for new ideas!
Pumpkin Spice Green Smoothie
Makes 2-3 servings
1 cup canned coconut milk
1 cup coconut water
2 cups of spinach, kale, swiss chard, or beet greens
1 avocado
1 medium carrot
1 cup pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/8 tsp ground cloves
Place ingredients in a blender in the order listed above. Blend on high for one minute. Add a little water if needed to thin out to desired consistency.
**You can sub out the individual spices for 1 1/2 tsp pre-made pumpkin pie spice if need be.
For an in-depth conversation about how eating real food can improve your health, please contact Pure Nutrition + Wellness at [email protected], or call 844-787-3935.
Be Well,
Donna Stephens, BCN, CNHP, LDHS
Kristin Stephens, MS, NTP
