Banana-Mango Pina Colada Parfait/Smoothie

Banana-Mango Pina Colada Parfait/Smoothie

This recipe combines the tropical flavors of mango and banana with a hint of coconut, creating a refreshing and delicious treat. You can enjoy it as a layered parfait or a creamy smoothie.

Yields: 1-2 servings Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• For the Mango-Banana Base:
  • 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced (about 1 cup) – reserve some small diced pieces for garnish if making a parfait
  • 1 ripe banana, sliced (about 1 cup) – reserve a few slices for garnish if making a parfait or smoothie
• For the Coconut/Yogurt Layer (Parfait Option):
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla) – for a more traditional Pina Colada flavor, you can use coconut-flavored Greek yogurt or mix in a tiny amount of coconut extract to plain yogurt.
  • 1-2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut (optional, for texture and flavor)
• For the Pina Colada Flavor (Smoothie/Blended Parfait Option):
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk (canned, full-fat for creaminess, or light for a lighter option)
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice (optional, for more “Pina Colada” authenticity, or you can omit if you want a purely mango-banana flavor)
  • 1/2 cup ice (if making a smoothie or a very cold blended parfait)
• Sweetener (Optional, to taste):
  • 1-2 teaspoons honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar

Equipment:

• Blender (for the smoothie or blended parfait)
• Serving glasses (tall glasses work well for parfaits and smoothies)

Instructions:

Option 1: Layered Banana-Mango Pina Colada Parfait (as seen on the left in the image)

1. Prepare the Mango & Banana: Dice most of your mango into bite-sized pieces. Slice your banana. Reserve a few smaller diced mango pieces and banana slices for garnish or the top layer.
2. Make the Coconut Yogurt Layer (Optional): In a small bowl, gently mix the Greek yogurt with the shredded coconut (if using). If you want to enhance the coconut flavor, you can add a tiny drop of coconut extract.
3. Assemble the Parfait:
   • Start with a layer of diced mango at the bottom of your serving glass.
   • Add a layer of banana slices on top of the mango.
   • Spoon a generous layer of the coconut yogurt mixture over the fruit.
   • Repeat the layers: more mango, then banana, then yogurt, until your glass is almost full.
   • Garnish: Top with the reserved diced mango, banana slices, and a sprig of fresh mint if desired.
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately!

Option 2: Blended Banana-Mango Pina Colada Smoothie (as seen on the right in the image)

1. Combine Ingredients: In a blender, combine the diced mango, sliced banana, coconut milk, pineapple juice (if using), and ice (if using). If you desire a sweeter smoothie, add honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar to taste.
2. Blend: Blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more coconut milk or pineapple juice until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Pour & Garnish: Pour the smoothie into your serving glass.
4. Garnish: Top with a few fresh banana slices or a small piece of mango if desired, as shown in the image.
5. Serve: Drink immediately!

Tips & Variations:

• For Extra Creaminess: If you’re making the smoothie, use frozen mango and banana. This will make your smoothie thicker and colder without needing as much ice.
• Protein Boost: Add a scoop of vanilla or unflavored protein powder to the smoothie for an extra protein kick.
• Tropical Twist: Add a few chunks of fresh pineapple to the blender for an even more authentic pina colada flavor in the smoothie.
• Nutty Flavor: A tablespoon of cashew butter or almond butter can be added to the smoothie for richness and healthy fats.
• Vegan Option: For the parfait, ensure your Greek yogurt is plant-based (coconut yogurt works wonderfully!). For the smoothie, all ingredients are typically vegan.
• Sweetness Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sweetener based on the ripeness of your fruit and your personal preference.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Banana-Mango Pina Colada Parfait or Smoothie!