Pumpkin Smoothie

Big Boy had some dental work done last Monday. For a few days he complained about pain when we were brushing his teeth and it escalated to pain when he was eating. We were worried that there might be a problem with his filling, but soon discovered he kept biting his cheek.

For a few days now we've been trying to keep him from eating anything too complicated (hence several nights of soup this week). How do you explain to a 3 year old to eat only on one side of his mouth? He just wasn't getting it. So small bites and an occasional smoothie when he can't get a meal down.

I ran across this recipe from an old issue of Fitness Magazine and couldn't wait to try it out with the kids. This was the perfect opportunity and we loved it. Baby Girl wasn't completely sold, but at one year old, she still doesn't fully understand a straw. This smoothie was yummy, rich, and tasted a lot like Pumpkin Ice Cream. Very good and taking into consideration the nutritional value, it's something we'll be trying again soon. Hope you like it as much as we did.




Super Pumpkin Smoothie

1 c canned pure pumpkin
1 c milk
2 Tbsp maple syrup
1/3 tsp nutmeg
2/3 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla
1 c ice
whipped cream and cinnamon (optional)

Blend everything but the ice until smooth. add ice; continue to blend until thick and creamy. Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon, if desired. Serves 4

Here's the real clincher, the nutritional facts included:
88 calories
3 grams protein
15 grams carbs
2 grams fat (1 gram saturated)
2 grams fiber