Pumpkin season is back let's blend some smoothie

Smoothies are one of the best ways to pack nutrient-dense ingredients into one on-the-go snack.

Adding protein sources to your smoothie will help keep you full and satisfied between meals, as protein helps slow digestion and suppresses certain hormones that drive feelings of hunger

This is our version of a pumpkin pie smoothie. It's creamy, cool, includes all macronutrients (proteins, fats, and carbs) and it's delicious. In addition, the pumpkin provides an amazing boost of nutrients. Pumpkin is high in fiber, an excellent source of vitamin A & C, and antioxidant rich. This smoothie is low in sugar and can be made vegan or paleo friendly!

This delicious smoothie recipe combines frozen banana, pumpkin purée, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create a creamy combination sure to win over any pumpkin pie lover.

Plus, nut butter and protein powder add a boost of energy to power you through your day. If you're craving some extra nutrition, toss in the handful of optional spinach to boost your intake of folate, vitamin C, and carotenoid antioxidants

Save time.

One time saving tip is to make 2 servings and store the second serving in a mason jar to enjoy the next day. Or if you know your mornings always seem rushed, you could make the smoothie the night before and place in the fridge so that it's ready for you the next day. For an added nutrient boost, always add a handful of greens.

Quick thoughts on protein powder.

We know protein powder isn't necessarily 'real food' however we feel that if the quality of the protein powder is up to par, then you'll find us using it too. We look for powders that have no artificial flavors, no artificial sweeteners, non-gmo, no soy, and if it's whey protein powder we recommend that it comes from organic, grass-fed cows.

For a little added crunch we topped the Pumpkin Pie Protein Smoothie with a sprinkle of our Pumpkin Spice Granola (#notpaleo).

Now let's give this delicious and nutrient-dense Pumpkin Pie Protein Smoothie a try!

Pumpkin Pie Protein Smoothie

This cool and creamy smoothie is just like pumpkin pie with whipped cream but it's totally acceptable for breakfast because it's packed with protein and healthy fats. For an added nutrient bonus, throw in a handful of spinach.

AUTHOR: THE REAL FOOD DIETITIANS

PREP TIME: 5 MINS

COOK TIME: 5 MINS

TOTAL TIME: 10 MINS

YIELD: 2 SERVINGS 1X

CATEGORY: SMOOTHIE

INGREDIENTS

1 medium banana, peeled and frozen

1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

1 ½ Tbsp. nut or seed butter of choice

1/2 cup unsweetened almond*, coconut milk or water

1/2 cup canned coconut milk or full-fat yogurt –> not dairy-free

1/2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice

¼ tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. vanilla

2 scoops unflavored or vanilla protein powder of choice

2 tsp. maple syrup (optional-for a touch of sweetness)

1 cup ice

handful of spinach (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

Place all ingredients into the container of your blender. Place the lid on top and blend until smooth.

Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

NOTES

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NUTRITION

SERVING SIZE: 1 SERVING

CALORIES: 307

SUGAR: 13 G

SODIUM: 90 MG

FAT: 14 G

CARBOHYDRATES: 26 G

FIBER: 5 G

PROTEIN: 23 G