Pumpkin Protein Smoothie Bowl

When I discovered the Smoothie Bowl locally at The Juice Bar, it was love at first bite! 

This is the first year for me to create a pumpkin version. It's pumpkiny, bananay and full of whole food goodness -including half an avocado- to satiate my hunger until a late lunch. And, this recipe fits into a Paleo or KETO. If you're strict, leave out the pitted date.

It's good even without my preferred protein enhancements from Ancient Nutrition! But why miss an opportunity to bless your body? 

A quick note about my protein choices. The Multi Collagen Protein earns a WOWZERS from me, because it mixes into beverages and recipes without a weird texture or grit. Basically, it dissolves which means it's easily absorbed into your gut to work its magic! Collagen is not vegan. However, I prefer a plant-based protein powder for the taste, which is why I choose Plant Protein+ Vegan Superfood Protein Powder. Try both for yourself. (if the code doesn't pop up, email me for a special code). While other flavors are available, vanilla is my go-to, because I can make it work with all kinds of fruits, coffee, and extracts!

Here it is, my first-ever...

PUMPKIN PROTEIN SMOOTHIE BOWL

Into a food processor or blender...

• 3/4 to 1 cup Unsweetened "Milk" (your choice, I used almond)
• 1/2 cup+ 100% Pumpkin Puree' (Libby's will do, not the pumpkin pie mix)
• 1 small frozen Banana (or half of a large frozen banana)
  
• 1/2 large Avocado (or whole small avocado or frozen chunks, healthy fat)
• 1 pitted Date (added for depth of flavor sweetness)
• 1 scoop Ancient Nutrition Multi Collagen Protein
• 1 scoop Ancient Nutrition Plant Protein+ Powder
• 1 tablespoon Pumpkin Spice (I make my own bc I like extra nutmeg)

Toppings...

• Dollop of Almond Butter
• Crockpot Pumpkin Spice Trail Mix
• Extra Pumpkin Seeds

You can totally use your own protein powder and your own cooked pumpkin! Now, Go Play with Your Food and let me know how it turned out!

"Sam"

Dessert Pumpkin Hummus

Savory & Dessert Pumpkin Hummus

I remember a number of years ago when I spotted a chocolate brownie dessert hummus at the grocery store. This foodie heart fell in love! 

If you're a pumpkin pie lover, you may fall in love with this pumpkiny, protein-packed, sugar-free goodness! Traditional hummus uses olive oil and tahini. This recipe uses peanut butter to serve as both!

It really takes a food processor or a fancy-schmancy blender to make hummus.

DESSERT PUMPKIN HUMMUS

1 15 oz can Chickpeas

1/2 cup creamy unsweetened Peanut Butter (I prefer Skippy No Sugar Added)

1/3 cup Maple Syrup (your choice, 100% or sugar-free)

1/3 cup 100% Pure Pumpkin (puree or pack - not pie filling)

1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

2 teaspoons Pumpkin Pie Spice (make your own!)

pinch of salt

1/2 cup mini or regular dark chocolate chips (I prefer Lily's Dark Chocolate Chips)

opt. 1 scoop Vanilla Multi Collagen Protein (I prefer Ancient Nutrition)

• Combine all ingredients except for the chocolate chips into the food processor
  
• Pulse until smooth. You may need to scrape down the bowl occasionally 
• Transfer to a different bowl or container to fold in the chocolate chips
• 
  Chill in air-tight container in the fridge until ready to serve with apple slices, vanilla wafers or graham crackers

That's it! Easy-chickpeasy! Go play with your food and let me know how it turned out...

"Sam"