This vegan fruit smoothie is made with sweet, caramelized pineapple blended with fragrant ginger and thick and creamy coconut milk.
If you know me personally, have been reading this blog for any amount of time or follow me on Instagram, you’ve probably figured out by now that I begin every day with a smoothie.
In fact, I probably have close to 100 smoothie recipes on this website made with all sorts of ingredients including coffee, blueberries, chocolate, cherries, peanut butter and more.
While you’d think I would run out of ideas for changing up my morning smoothie, I find that I am constantly inspired. Whether it’s a visit to the farmers market, a trip to a new destination or a walk through an ethnic grocery store, inspiration is always around if you keep your eyes open to it.
Most recently I was inspired by my friend Bert who works at a locally owned Jamaican restaurant. The owner, Vince, invited me into their kitchen to film a cooking video which is when I witnessed Bert sautéing pineapple before placing it in the freezer to turn into bite-sized frozen pineapple pops.
After just one bite I knew I had to go home and turn that caramelized pineapple into a smoothie. Roasting the pineapple produces the same caramelized result without having to stand around and monitor a hot pan but of course you can always sauté it if you prefer.
As the pineapple roasts, the natural sugars caramelize and begin to ooze into candy. I’m not kidding – just when you thought pineapple couldn’t get any more delicious it turns into caramel.
To add creaminess and a velvety texture I blend the caramelized pineapple with full fat, Thai style coconut milk. Since Vince doesn’t like ice in his smoothies I decided to use a frozen banana which adds thickness without needing ice.
Right before serving I sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes and chia seeds for crunch and texture.
You won’t believe how insanely delicious this smoothie tastes. There’s only one thing left for you to do: try it for yourself and report back! Be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make it at home so I can see!
Your straw is waiting.
Caramelized Pineapple Smoothie
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 cups pineapple (peeled and sliced in strips)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- ½ teaspoon cayenne (optional)
- 1 banana (frozen, cut in chunks)
- 14 ounces full-fat coconut milk (Thai style)
- 4 inches ginger root (peeled, sliced)
- ¼ cup flax seed meal
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups spinach (optional)
Optional Garnishes
- chia seeds
- toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees and spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, toss together pineapple strips with oil and cayenne. Spread pineapple out in a single layer on baking sheet and roast for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, or until golden brown and caramelized. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Place caramelized pineapple, frozen banana, coconut milk, ginger, flax seed meal, nutmeg and spinach (if using) in a high speed blender and puree until smooth. You can add ice to make a thicker smoothie if you wish.
- Divide mixture between four glasses and garnish with chia seeds and toasted coconut flakes if you wish.
Notes
Nutrition
Need some new smoothie ideas? Check out my Pinterest board!
What a great smoothie idea!!
It’s so good!
What a delicious way to start the day! Looks incredible!