There were moments during yesterday’s run where my body just wanted to stop on the side of the road and spend time with the farm animals instead of run further. My heart was in the run but a few bad decisions regarding the course and starting an hour later than I wanted left my resenting the run instead of loving it.

At the half way point when I texted Bo a location update he reminded me that the ingredients for an ice cold, frosty Pumpkin Spice Latte Smoothie were waiting for me at home when I finished the 20 miles. It’s sad to say but that was the only thing that kept me moving during some of the hot and humid miles.  I’d spent an hour on Friday night cross referencing multiple different recipes, finally perfecting my ingredient list and put everything out to ensure I wasn’t forgetting anything.

Within five minutes of walking through the door I was sipping a protein filled Pumpkin Spice Latte smoothie while hanging out in pigeon pose. It was perfection. The protein helped my muscles repair and keep me satiated after the long run. The icy, coolness helped cool me down. The pumpkin packs in more potassium than a banana which means that since this recipe includes both, my body’s electrolytes could get back in balance faster!

Pumpkin Spice Latte Smoothie

Serves: 1-2 depending on hunger – Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

1 frozen banana

1/2 cup canned pumpkin

1/3 cup Greek yogurt (I used 0% Fage as that’s what we had on hand but 2% would work perfectly too)

1 cup coffee, cooled

1/2 cup skim milk

1 scoop vanilla protein powder

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

1/8 teaspoon allspice

1/8 teaspoon ginger

2 pitted dates, if you want extra sweetness

6-10 ice cubes

 

Combine all ingredients in blender. Blend on high for 20-30 seconds, or until smooth. Pour into either one large glass, based on appetite, or two glasses so you can share with someone else!

Your turn – What’s your favorite pumpkin recipe?