Pumpkin is not just delicious in holiday pies. It is wonderful baked in casseroles, stuffed with your favorite source of protein, and a delicious addition to stir fry. Pumpkin adds color and rich flavor to all of your dishes. They are also very good for you. Pumpkins contain potassium and are loaded with an important antioxidant, beta-carotene. Beta-carotene is one of the plant carotenoids converted to vitamin A in the body. In the conversion to vitamin A, beta carotene performs many important functions in overall health. Research has shown that a diet rich in foods containing beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer and offers protect against heart disease. Beta-carotene offers protection against other diseases as well as some degenerative aspects of aging. And because they are 90% water, they are low calorie containing only 49 calories per cup. One cup of pumpkin also contains 2 grams of protein, 12 grams of carbohydrate, 3 grams of dietary fiber and 37 mgs of calcium. So add it to your favorite recipes or create all new recipes featuring this season's fit food super star.

This Pumpkin Pie Power Smoothie from our friends at menubook.com is the perfect meal replacement for the Holiday season. You can also put this in your ice cream maker for a healthy protein packed and yummy frozen dessert! For more delicious and healthy pumpkin recipe ideas check out menubook.com

4 ice cubes

4 ounces pure water

splash (about 2 tablespoons) of unsweetened almond, hazelnut, soy or rice milk

1/4 cup of canned pumpkin (no sugar added)

1 scoop of vanilla protein powder (no sugar added)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spices

Directions:

Blend all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth

Dec 8, 2007