THE PULSE

03Oct

3 Healthy Pumpkin Recipes to Fall for This October

NFC | 03 Oct, 2024 | Healthy Recipes | Return|

It’s that time of year again, pumpkin spice season! While pumpkin may not be everyone’s go-to flavor, there’s no denying that it takes center stage in the fall. And if pumpkin hasn’t been your favorite in the past, these healthy, seasonal recipes might just change your mind. Packed with nutrients and that undeniable flavor of Autumn, these three pumpkin-inspired dishes will have you ready to embrace the season. 

1. Pumpkin Spice Smoothie Bowl 

Ingredients 

  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree 
  • 1 frozen banana 
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice) 
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice 
  • 1 tbsp almond butter 
  • Toppings: granola, chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, sliced apple, or cinnamon 

Instructions 

  1. Blend the pumpkin puree, frozen banana, almond milk, Greek yogurt, pumpkin pie spice, and almond butter until smooth. 
  2. Pour into a bowl and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy with a spoon! 

 

2. Pumpkin Oat Energy Balls 

Ingredients 

  • 1 cup rolled oats 
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree 
  • 1/4 cup almond butter (or nut butter of choice) 
  • 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup 
  • 1/4 cup ground flaxseeds 
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract 
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice 
  • 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips (optional) 

Instructions 

  1. In a large bowl, mix the oats, pumpkin puree, almond butter, honey, flaxseeds, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice until well combined. 
  2. If using, stir in the mini chocolate chips. 
  3. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. 
  4. Store in the fridge and enjoy anytime you need an energy boost! 

 

3. Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili 

Ingredients 

  • 1 tbsp olive oil 
  • 1 onion, diced 
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced 
  • 1 bell pepper, diced 
  • 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree 
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed 
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes 
  • 2 cups vegetable broth 
  • 1 tbsp chili powder 
  • 1 tsp cumin 
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika 
  • Salt and pepper, to taste 
  • Optional toppings: avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, Greek yogurt 

Instructions 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. 
  2. Stir in the pumpkin puree, black beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes. 
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.  
  4. Serve with your favorite toppings. 

About the Author

NFC

NFC

Related

6 Tips to Get Toned

6 Tips to Get Toned

NFC

Are you dreaming of a toned, sculpted body but not sure where to start? Whether you're aiming to...

Read More >
Your Summer Stretch Routine: Feel Lighter and More Mobile with National Fitness!

Your Summer Stretch Routine: Feel Lighter and More Mobile with National Fitness!

NFC

Staying active is key to making the most of these warmer months. But are you feeling stiff, tight, o...

Read More >
5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Limited Workout Time

5 Tips to Make the Most of Your Limited Workout Time

NFC

Here is how to crush your fitness goals without spending hours on a workout.

Read More >
6 Ways a Personal Trainer Will Help You

6 Ways a Personal Trainer Will Help You

NFC

Embarking on a fitness journey can be both exciting and challenging. Where do you even start?! Wheth...

Read More >
The Full-Body Workout That’s Easy on Your Joints and Seriously Effective

The Full-Body Workout That’s Easy on Your Joints and Seriously Effective

NFC

If you're looking for a workout that checks every box, swimming might just be your new go-to. It...

Read More >
4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Workout

4 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Workout

NFC

You might still be going through the motions, but it is just not hitting the same. Don’t worry, it ...

Read More >