Halloween may be behind us once again, but it is still pumpkin season around our house! My kiddos, the Mr., and I typically eat pumpkin in some form numerous times per week. Pumpkin smoothies are one of the favorites – and like any smoothie, they are SUPER easy! Last week’s featured smoothie, in honor of the Halloween celebration, was the Green Goblin Pumpkin Smoothie (same recipe as below, just add spinach! Kids love the green color, and I love getting the super food in to their breakfast!). So, why do I love pumpkin so much? Other than the nostalgic, seasonal appeal and the flavor, it is incredibly rich in Vitamin A, also providing healthy doses of Vitamin C, Potassium, Riboflavin, Copper and Manganese. Lots of the good stuff.
I didn’t begin exploring the world of smoothies until recently. Smoothies are such an easy way to try new things and get some good stuff in to the kids’ bellies. Often, they don’t even know that they’re getting the veggies that I sneak in there. Now that we’re smoothie-friendly, I’ve learned and come up with some very creative ideas. My main rule of thumb is to not get too crazy with the fruit. We love fruit, but let’s get some veggies in there too!
I typically choose either bananas or avocados as my smoothie base. They’re both fruits, but each packs a very different punch. Bananas contain Potassium, Vitamins, A, C, and B6, fiber, flavonoids, and antioxidants. They’re high in fructose, though, so don’t go overboard. Avocados are a different story because they leave out the fructose and add healthy fat to the mix. Additionally, they’re loaded with fiber, Vitamin K, Folate, Pantothentic Acid, B6, C and Potassium. And also a touch of Vitamin E, Niacin, and Riboflavin. Disclaimer: My kids love avocado in guacamole, but they instantly know when I’ve used avocado in a smoothie. Very different texture. Give it a try in one of your next smoothie recipes and see if it goes over with your crew. For the pumpkin smoothie, though, go B-A-N-A-N-A-S!
Pumpkin Smoothie
- 3 bananas (frozen or fresh)
- 2 cups of pumpkin puree
- 2 tbs maple syrup
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- pinch of nutmeg
- 1 tsp maca powder (optional)
- 1 cup of coconut milk,
- 1/4 cup chia seed
- ice
- 1 cup spinach (optional)
Use organic ingredients whenever possible
Combine all ingredients in blender. If using frozen bananas, run under a little warm water to easily remove skin. Blend until desired texture is reached. You may need to add more ice or milk depending on the desired consistency. Pour into glasses and enjoy!