Ever since pumpkin spice lattes made their first appearance back in 2003, we wait with anticipation for PSL season every year. Call us basic, but we love pumpkin spice flavors — and it doesn’t hurt that this squash also delivers some great health benefits. High in potassium, magnesium and fiber, the nutrients in pumpkin are known for improving heart health and boosting immunity. If you’re like us and are looking for more ways to get our gourd on, try your hand at any (or all!) of these four good-for-you pumpkins-powered recipes:
Made with only eight ingredients, there’s no reason not to have a container of these one-bite morsels in your freezer. Oats, pecans, pumpkin puree, peanut butter and maple syrup come together in the food processor, then once formed, the no-bake bites are topped with a pecan and a drizzle of dark chocolate. Each serving is just 69 calories, making this pumpkin recipe delectable enough for dessert but healthy enough to enjoy as an energizing midday snack. Either way, once you pop… well, you know the rest.
Two classic fall flavors come together in one warming, cozy mug of deliciousness. Chai and pumpkin go hand in hand, and unlike other pumpkin-flavored drinks, this recipe leaves out the excess sugar. While the average PSL contains around 24g of sugar, this DIY version uses honey as its sweetener, which packs more sweetness for less. If you don’t have chai tea in your pantry, substitute black tea and a sprinkle of cloves, ginger, cinnamon, allspice and cardamom.
We couldn’t do a pumpkin recipe roundup without including our favorite method for roasting raw pumpkin seeds. With a mix of garam masala, garlic powder, paprika and oregano, this on-the-go savory snack can be tossed back by the handful or used as a hearty topping for salads or bisques.
Using a can of pumpkin and a handful of other ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, these Pumpkin Pie Protein Pancakes (say that five times fast!) couldn’t be easier to make. Each serving has around 8.3g of protein in only 214 calories, making them a great way to jumpstart your day. Top with your favorites like Greek yogurt, toasted pepitas (the technical term for the goodness inside a pumpkin seed shell), fresh blueberries or candied pecans.
Embrace all the flavors fall has to offer with these cozy, autumnal-inspired good-for-you dinner ideas.
