September ushers in autumn, and that means pumpkin is widely available again. Pumpkin is not only delicious but also rich in fiber and beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), which is good for your immune system and recovery. Combined with chickpeas, spinach, and feta, you get a meal that fits perfectly with an active lifestyle.
Ingredients (2 servings)
- 400 g butternut squash (peeled and diced)
- 200 g chickpeas (canned, rinsed and drained)
- 2 handfuls of fresh spinach
- 60 g feta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a handful of pumpkin seeds for extra crunch
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 200 °C.
- Mix the pumpkin cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.
- Add the chickpeas to the baking sheet, drizzle with the remaining olive oil, and roast for another 10 minutes.
- Divide the spinach between two bowls, and spoon the roasted pumpkin and chickpeas on top.
- Crumble the feta over it and finish with some pumpkin seeds.
Nutritional values (per serving, approx.)
- Kcal: 460
- Proteins: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 49 g
- Fats: 18 g
- Fibres: 11 g
Why is this recipe healthy for athletes?
- Recovery & energy: The combination of complex carbohydrates from pumpkin and chickpeas gives you long-lasting energy and helps replenish your glycogen stores.
- Muscle building: Thanks to the proteins from chickpeas and feta, you support muscle recovery after a workout.
- Resistance & health: Pumpkin and spinach are full of antioxidants and vitamins (A, C, and K), which are good for your immune system.
- Fibres: Ensure a feeling of satiety and support healthy digestion.
Tip: This dish is also easy to take with you in a container for lunch, to work, or after your workout!
Do you want help with what else you can do to become healthier? eating and exercising? Let us know below – and we’ll help you with that too!
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