A crunchy snack or a salad topper, pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, have an impressive number of health benefits. Beverages made from it can be incredible too. Before discovering recipes made from pumpkin seeds, understand the nutritional profile they have.
Rich in Nutrients: Pumpkin seeds are packed with essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, healthy fats, vitamins (such as vitamin K and vitamin E), and minerals (such as magnesium, zinc, and iron).
Heart-Healthy: The combination of fats, fiber, and antioxidants in pumpkin seeds may contribute to heart health by reducing cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and inflammation.
Supports Immune Function: Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, a mineral crucial for immune function, wound healing, and cell growth.
Promotes Digestive Health: The fiber content in pumpkin seeds supports digestive health by promoting regularity and preventing constipation.
Antioxidant-Rich: Pumpkin seeds contain antioxidants like carotenoids and vitamin E, which help neutralize harmful free radicals and protect against chronic diseases.
Know the Refreshing Concoctions that can Elevate your Daily Routine
Pumpkin Seed Milk:
Ingredients:
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1 cup raw pumpkin seeds (soaked overnight)
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4 cups filtered water
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Optional: sweeteners (such as dates, maple syrup, or honey), vanilla extract, cinnamon
Instructions:
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Rinse-soaked pumpkin seeds and add them to a blender with filtered water.
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Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
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Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine mesh sieve to remove pulp.
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Add sweeteners and flavorings to taste, if desired.
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Store homemade pumpkin seed milk in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Shake well before serving.
Pumpkin Seed Smoothie:
Ingredients:
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1 ripe banana
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1/2 cup frozen mixed berries
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2 tablespoons pumpkin seed butter
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1 cup spinach or kale
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1 tablespoon chia seeds
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1 cup unsweetened almond milk or pumpkin seed milk
Instructions:
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Combine all ingredients in a blender.
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Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately.
Pumpkin Seed Latte:
Ingredients:
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1 cup brewed coffee or espresso
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1/2 cup pumpkin seed milk
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1 tablespoon pumpkin puree
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1 teaspoon maple syrup or honey
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1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
Instructions:
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In a small saucepan, heat pumpkin seed milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice over medium heat until warm.
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Pour brewed coffee or espresso into a mug.
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Top with the warmed pumpkin seed milk mixture.
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Stir gently and sprinkle with additional pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
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Enjoy your cozy pumpkin seed latte!
Pumpkin Seed Protein Shake:
Ingredients:
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1 scoop vanilla protein powder
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2 tablespoons pumpkin seed butter
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1 cup unsweetened pumpkin seed milk
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1/2 frozen banana
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1 tablespoon cocoa powder (optional)
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Ice cubes
Instructions:
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Combine all ingredients in a blender.
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Blend until smooth and creamy.
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Add more liquid if necessary to achieve the desired consistency.
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Pour into a glass and garnish with pumpkin seeds or cocoa powder, if desired
From creamy pumpkin seed milk to indulgent pumpkin seed lattes, the possibilities with pumpkin seeds are infinite. So, why not explore the vibrant world of pumpkin seed beverages? Your taste buds and body will thank you later.
