Pineapple Mango Smoothie

Pineapple Mango Smoothie

This smoothie is tropical, sweet, and packed with vitamins. It’s perfect for a quick breakfast, a healthy snack, or a post-workout refuel.

Yields: 1 large or 2 small servings Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (about 165g) frozen mango chunks: Using frozen mango helps make the smoothie thick and cold without needing ice, which can dilute the flavor.
• 1 cup (about 165g) frozen pineapple chunks: Same as above, frozen pineapple is key for texture and chill.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) liquid of choice:
  • For a creamier smoothie: Coconut water, almond milk, or regular milk.
  • For a more tart and tropical smoothie: Orange juice or passion fruit juice.
  • For a lighter option: Plain water.
• Optional additions (for flavor and nutrition boosts):
  • 1/2 banana (fresh or frozen): Adds sweetness and creaminess, and can help to thicken the smoothie.
  • 1 tablespoon (15g) Greek yogurt or regular yogurt: For extra protein and creaminess.
  • 1/2 inch fresh ginger (peeled and grated or thinly sliced): Adds a zesty, warming kick.
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice or lemon juice: Brightens the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon (5g) chia seeds or flax seeds: For added fiber and omega-3s.
  • Sweetener to taste (if desired): Honey, maple syrup, or a pitted Medjool date. Start with 1 teaspoon or 1/2 date and add more if needed.

Equipment:

• High-speed blender

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients in the blender: Add the liquid of your choice to the blender first. This helps the blades move more easily.
2. Add frozen fruit: Next, add the frozen mango chunks and frozen pineapple chunks.
3. Add optional ingredients: If you’re using any of the optional additions like banana, yogurt, ginger, lime juice, seeds, or sweetener, add them now.
4. Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender and blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. You may need to stop the blender and scrape down the sides with a spatula a few times to ensure everything is incorporated, especially if you have a less powerful blender. If the smoothie is too thick, add a tablespoon or two more of your chosen liquid until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust: Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed. You can add more sweetener, a squeeze of lime juice, or even a tiny pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
6. Serve immediately: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy! For an extra touch, you can garnish with a small slice of mango, a pineapple wedge, or a sprig of fresh mint.

Tips for the Best Smoothie:

• Use ripe fruit: Even though you’re using frozen fruit, if you’re freezing it yourself, ensure it’s ripe for the best flavor.
• Adjust liquid: The amount of liquid needed can vary depending on your blender and how thick you like your smoothie. Start with less and add more as needed.
• For meal prep: You can portion out frozen fruit into freezer bags ahead of time. When you’re ready to make your smoothie, just dump the contents of the bag into the blender with your liquid.
• Storage: Smoothies are best enjoyed immediately, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The texture might change slightly.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Pineapple Mango Smoothie!