Tropical Sunshine Smoothie

Tropical Sunshine Smoothie

This smoothie is packed with the vibrant flavors of mango, pineapple, orange, and a touch of banana for creaminess. It’s perfect for a healthy breakfast, a refreshing snack, or a post-workout treat.

Yields: 1 large serving or 2 smaller servings Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (about 165g) frozen mango chunks: Using frozen mango helps make the smoothie thick and cold without needing ice, preserving the flavor.
• 1/2 cup (about 80g) fresh or frozen pineapple chunks: If using fresh, make sure it’s ripe for the best sweetness.
• 1/2 a large ripe banana: Fresh or frozen. If using fresh, consider freezing it beforehand for a thicker smoothie. This adds natural sweetness and creaminess.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) orange juice: Freshly squeezed is always best for flavor, but good quality store-bought works too. Adjust to your desired consistency – more for a thinner smoothie, less for a thicker one.
• Optional additions (for an extra boost):
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut water or plain yogurt: For added hydration or creaminess and probiotics.
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flax seeds: For fiber and omega-3s.
  • A small handful of spinach or kale: You won’t taste it, but it adds nutrients!
  • A few ice cubes: If you prefer a colder or thicker smoothie and aren’t using all frozen fruit.
  • Sweetener to taste (optional): A drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a pitted Medjool date if your fruit isn’t sweet enough for your preference.

Equipment:

• Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving glass

Instructions:

1. Prepare your fruit:
   • If using fresh mango and pineapple, peel and chop them into approximately 1-inch chunks.
   • Peel the banana and break it into a few pieces.
   • If you want a very cold and thick smoothie, ensure your mango, pineapple, and/or banana are frozen.
2. Add ingredients to the blender: Place all the prepared ingredients into your blender. Start with the liquid (orange juice, coconut water/yogurt if using) first, then add the softer fruits (banana), and finally the harder or frozen fruits (mango, pineapple). This helps the blender blades catch and blend everything more easily.
3. Blend until smooth: Secure the lid on your blender. Start blending on a low speed and gradually increase to high. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, with no chunks of fruit remaining. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides of the blender with a spatula a few times to ensure everything is incorporated, especially if using a lot of frozen fruit. If the smoothie is too thick to blend, add a tiny bit more orange juice (1-2 tablespoons at a time) until it blends smoothly.
4. Taste and adjust (optional): Taste the smoothie. If you prefer it sweeter, add your preferred sweetener (honey, maple syrup, or a date) and blend again until combined.
5. Serve immediately: Pour the smoothie into a tall glass.
6. Garnish (as pictured):
   • Cut a thin slice of fresh pineapple, make a small slit in the center, and place it on the rim of the glass.
   • Add a few fresh mango cubes on top of the smoothie for an appealing presentation and an extra burst of fresh fruit.

Tips for the Best Smoothie:

• Use ripe fruit: Ripe mangoes, pineapples, and bananas will give your smoothie the best natural sweetness and flavor.
• Frozen fruit is key: For a thick, cold, and creamy smoothie without diluting the flavor with ice, use frozen fruit. You can buy pre-frozen fruit or freeze your own ripe fruit.
• Adjust consistency: If you prefer a thinner smoothie, add more liquid (orange juice or coconut water). For a thicker smoothie, use more frozen fruit or less liquid.
• Don’t overblend: Blend just until smooth to maintain the nutrients and avoid making the smoothie warm.
• Experiment with ratios: Feel free to adjust the proportions of the fruits to suit your taste preferences. If you love mango, add more! If you prefer more pineapple, go for it.

Enjoy your refreshing Tropical Sunshine Smoothie!