After learning how to cut a pineapple, the natural thing to do was … make a pina colada smoothie! Because making yummy beverages is pretty much my favorite thing. My mom always ordered virgin pina coladas on our (rare) family vacations so this reminds me of carefree summer days. And this version is a wee bit more healthy than the usual calorie loaded drink, since it’s free of any added sugar or sweetener.
And it is sooo good. I knocked over one of the glasses while taking pictures and seriously contemplated slurping it up with a straw. The fact that others were present was pretty much the only thing that stopped me. So there you have it.
While I’m all for smoothies for breakfast, this is a perfect an afternoon snack. It’s perfect because you don’t actually have to cook, yet you’re not just eating fruit either. Kids love it and mom can kick back and pretend she’s on a desert island with an actual pina colada on hand. Even more, leftovers make awesome popsicles, so don’t worry if the servings turn out a little larger than you expected.
Pina Colada Smoothie
The ingredients are nothing fancy – pineapple, banana, coconut milk and shredded coconut – things you can find in every grocery store. But combined, they’re utterly delicious. The banana and coconut make this smoothie creamy and filling, while the pineapple adds plenty of health benefits to the mix.
Rich in vitamin C and manganese, pineapple helps support the immune system and metabolism, aids growth, and is considered an antioxidant. Bananas are not too shabby either – they contain fiber and antioxidants, as well as vitamins B6, C, copper and potassium. Finally, coconut is an important source of protein and minerals. One of these minerals, manganese, is responsible for the metabolism of carbs and cholesterol, and contributes to bone health.
This means that while you’re sipping on your pina colada smoothie, you are also strengthening your body from the inside out.
Pina Colada Smoothie
Easy, delicious, vegan, summer-ready pina colada smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh chopped pineapple
- 1 banana frozen
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 2 tbsp shredded unsweetened coconut
- handful ice
Instructions
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Put everything in a blender and puree till smooth.
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Pour into a cup and garnish with pineapple. You can add protein powder if using as a meal replacement.
