I serve this smoothie during the holiday season to my family and guests. Just because it may be cold out doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy this heart healthy drink, which includes the star of the season, pumpkin! Pumpkin is filled with potassium, fiber and Vitamin C, all which supports heart health. (This recipe is in my new cookbook, “Food for Thought” out on December 4.)

Cristina Ferrare, author of “Food for Thought.”

I usually have this smoothie made with pumpkin for dessert instead of sweets.

Here’s a little secret for the grown- ups at your party: If you want to add rum and go sit by the fire I highly suggest that! One ounce per serving should do the trick.

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

2 frozen bananas
1 cup canned pure pumpkin, not the seasoned one for pies
1 cup fresh orange juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¾ teaspoons Stevia
4 tablespoons dairy free Coconut Whip Cream
1 tablespoon pomegranate seeds
1 tablespoons orange zest
Pinch of cinnamon & ground nutmeg

INSTRUCTIONS

Place the first six ingredients into a blender for 2 minutes until smooth.

Pour into chilled glasses and garnish with whipped cream, pomegranates, orange zest, cinnamon & nutmeg!

Serve immediately! Happy Holidays!

READ MORE STORIES THAT MOVE HUMANITY FORWARD

READ MORE STORIES THAT MOVE HUMANITY FORWARD

SIGN UP FOR MARIA’S SUNDAY PAPER