Do you love pumpkin?
We tend to think of pumpkin mainly as a fall treat, which is too bad because it’s so good for you that it deserves its place as a year-round go-to.
If you’re a pumpkin fan, you’ll love this healthy pumpkin smoothie because it’ll remind you of pumpkin pie. And if you’re on the fence about it, this recipe might just tip you over the edge.
That’s because almond butter gives it a nutty richness, hemp seeds add protein, and then avocado layers in even more rich flavor.
Healthy Pumpkin Smoothie
This smoothie is serious fuel for your day, keeping you feeling full and energized. Seriously, check out all the superfoods packed into this smoothie:
Raw Almond Butter
Rich in vitamin E and healthy fats, raw almonds have been shown to reduce your “bad” LDL cholesterol levels while increasing your “good” HDL cholesterol.
Pumpkin
One of the most nutritious fruits, pumpkin contains potassium, magnesium, and vitamins E and C, as well as a healthy dose of beta carotene.
Avocado
Avocados contain folate, potassium, and vitamin E. But they’re best known for being high in monounsaturated fat – the healthy type of fat that comes from plant-based sources. Monounsaturated fats can actually improve cholesterol levels, and deliver the healthy omega-3’s we all need.
Mesquite
You may know the term mesquite because of barbecue, but mesquite powder has nothing to do with savory BBQ flavor. Mesquite powder recently earned superfood status because it helps keep blood sugar stable and it contains protein. You’ll love its naturally sweet, caramel-molasses flavor.
Hemp Hearts
Nutrient-rich hemp seeds are made up of 24 percent protein, have a perfect balance of healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fats, and contain all 21 of the known amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.
Blueberries
Low in calories and high in antioxidants, blueberries aren’t just good for your body, they’re good for your brain.
The antioxidant power of blueberries has been shown to reduce the stress of oxidation in the brain, which makes them strong allies in the fight against age-related diseases.
Breakfast or Dessert
This recipe is so delicious you can enjoy it for either breakfast or dessert. And it’s a much healthier way to get your pumpkin fix than a sugar-laden pie or latte!
Healthy Pumpkin Smoothie
INGREDIENTS
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 avocado
- 1 apple (Gala, cored)
- 1 tbsp mesquite powder
- 2 tbsp almond butter
- 2 cups almond milk (or hemp milk)
- 1/2 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 3 to 5 drops liquid stevia (optional)
- 1 tbsp sliced almonds (optional)
- 1/4 cup blueberries
- 1/2 tbsp hemp seeds
- drizzle pure maple syrup (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a blender, puree pumpkin puree, avocado, apple, mesquite powder, almond butter, hemp milk, and pumpkin pie spice.
- Blend in optional stevia for sweetness, if needed.
- Pour the smoothie into two serving glasses. Top with sliced almonds, blueberries, hemp seeds, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
The Perfect Green Smoothie
Do you like to experiment with your green smoothie recipes?
If you do, you’ll love my green smoothies infographic, which shows you exactly how to mix-and-match ingredients for the perfect smoothie blend. You’ll not only boost the nutrition but also the taste factor.
Download the How to Make a Perfect Green Smoothie one-page printable right now! It’s free – just click the image below to get it now!
