I have been having this Coconut Pineapple Smoothie on repeat lately!! I do not know about you, but I am loving the summertime. The abundance of fresh, ripe fruit and vegetables is just divine. We have been taking the utmost advantage of it in our household 🥰.
This smoothie is no exception. It contains hidden veggies (😉), sweet pineapple, the lovely taste of coconut – and really little else. You instantly feel taken to a place that is hot and filled with sunshine (Caribbean anyone?!) drinking it. It also takes the literal time of five minutes. Making it super awesome for a quick, nutrient-dense breakfast in the morning.
In fact, if you do drink alcohol, you could possibly also use this as a base for a “healthier” Pina Colada. Simply make the smoothie and add a bit of white rum or vodka of your choice. How awesome is that? This Coconut Pineapple Smoothie can truly transport you from your morning to evening activities 😉.
Why is this Coconut Pineapple Smoothie good for you?
Cauliflower
Good, old cauliflower. It is not a vegetable that everyone likes, and if you are falling into this category – it is completely tasteless in this smoothie!! Frozen cauliflower adds a delicious creaminess, as well as some plant-based goodness 🤗! Cauliflower is part of the cruciferous vegetable family and contains a ton of fiber, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K. As you know, fiber is essential in order to keep our digestive tract healthy. It can also help in reducing inflammation in the gut. A diet rich in fiber can lower your risk of several diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Cauliflower is (as are most vegetables and fruit) also a great source of antioxidants. The antioxidants found in cauliflower are particularly beneficial in order to slow down the growth of cancer cells.
Pineapple
Not a fruit that we talk about often on the blog. For me, pineapple needs to be perfectly ripe and sweet in order to be truly enjoyed. Sadly, it is not that long here in Nothern Europe. Pineapple contains an abundance of Vitamin C and Manganese amongst other vitamins and minerals. The antioxidants found in Pineapple are particularly special because they appear to survive harsher conditions and thereby can last longer in our bodies. Pineapples also contain a group of enzymes called “bromelain”. This group of enzymes can aid in digestion by breaking down proteins. Studies in people with pancreatic inefficiencies have been proven to be particularly useful in taking a bromelain supplement against digestive issues.
Coconut Butter
You are likely wondering – what is the difference between Coconut Oil and Coconut Butter. Truth be told, it was not always clear to me either. Coconut oil is the oil that has been extracted from coconut meat. Coconut Butter is ground coconut flesh, pretty much similarly made like almond butter for example. Coconuts are high in Manganese, which is a mineral our body requires in small amounts. It plays a vital role in our bone health, ensuring that bones are properly developed and maintained. Manganese also helps to metabolize carbohydrates, cholesterol, and proteins. Coconuts are high in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). In recent years, there has been quite a lot of hype about MCTs. Due to their shorter length (“medium”), they do not need breaking down before entering your cells, which can provide a quicker source of energy for both your body and brain.
How can I adjust this recipe to my dietary requirements?
This recipe is nut-free, vegetarian, vegan, and paleo. Just ensure you are using a protein powder that fits with your dietary requirements (a vegan protein powder for vegans, a collagen powder should you be paleo).
And there you have it for this week! There are no progress pictures needed. You simply blend everything up in your blender and have yourself a delicious breakfast (or an awesome cocktail in the evening ☺️). I hope you enjoy this excursion to tropical grounds! As said, I currently can truly not get enough of this smoothie! Please let me know how you are liking the recipe – both here in the comments section below and over on Instagram under @life_and_lemons_foodblog and with #lifeandlemonsfoodblog.
Coconut Pineapple Smoothie
Course: BreakfastCuisine: SmoothiesDifficulty: Easy1
serving10
minutesThis Coconut Pineapple Smoothie is an absolute dream! Pineapple and coconut are balanced with healthy fats and protein to create a delicious recipe.
Ingredients
½ cup (70 gr.) frozen cauliflower
½ cup (70 gr.) pineapple
1 portion protein powder (plain, vanilla, or coconut, use a vegan protein powder if you are vegan or a collagen protein powder if you a paleo)
1 cup (250 ml) coconut milk (from a carton)
1 tbsp coconut butter
Pinch of ground ginger
How to
- Put all ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. ENJOY!
