Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

15oz can of Pumpkin (pureed pumpkin, not pumpkin pie mix), 2c Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk, 1 frozen Banana, 1/2c Pure Maple Syrup, 1tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice, 1 scoop Amazing Grass Green Superfood (Original)

Make sure to use Pure Maple Syrup and check ingredients. Using one with high fructose corn syrup or ingredients you can't pronounce defeats the purpose of this healthy smoothie.

You can substitute stevia or evaporated cane juice for the maple syrup. You can also reduce sweetner for a diabetic version.

Do not use frozen banana unless you are sure you have a quality blender. (I have a Kitchen Aid. Vitamix is another great brand for smoothies.)

If you don't have Amazing Grass Powder, you can substitute by adding in greens such as a cup of spinach or a cup of kale (or both!). The nutrition will change some, but it will still be higher in nutrients than eliminating greens altogether.

If you don't have Pumpkin Pie Spice, substitute with:
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground cloves

Other options for add-ins: Steel Cut Oats, TVP (Texturized Vegetable Protein), Chia Seeds, Flax Meal, Himalayan Pink Salt, Sea Salt

Canned pumpkin has a tinny taste. To rid that, cook the pumpkin on medium heat in a sauce pan for 10mins, whisking occasionally, until you can smell the rich aroma. Allow to cool.

Combine Pumpkin, Almond Milk, Banana (I keep frozen ripe bananas in the freezer, fresh is ok if you don't have them pre-frozen), Maple Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, and Amazing Grass Powder in quality blender. Mix on medium 1 minute, then high 1 minute until smooth and creamy.

Serving Size: makes 2 full-size smoothies

Number of Servings: 2

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user JAXRENEE.