Pineapple + Cherry Smoothie
This year we had my father over to celebrate a belated Father’s Day at my house. My folks, grandpa and nephew were all going to join us. I wanted to keep dinner simple so we could all hang out and actually have a conversation. We grilled up some Copper River salmon (my favorite) as well of a batch of my Cuban Grilled Zucchini. I also wanted to make a special dessert for my dad that we could all eat.
I started to think of some of his favorite treats he used to eat while we were growing up. What came to mind were Tater Tots, German Chocolate Cake and Big Stick popsicles. 🙂 The first two were going to be a bit too involved to recreate but I realized I could create some goodness using the flavors in the Big Stick popsicles. Do you remember those? We were hardly ever allowed to have our own (probably because they were gigantic and a hyperactive, sugar bomb for little kids. Good call Mom!).
In case you don’t remember, they were cherry and pineapple swirled popsicles. Instead of a popsicle form I wanted to make some sort of smoothie. A thick, almost sorbet like smoothie. Which was perfect because I had just bought a bag of frozen cherries at Costco I couldn’t wait to dig in to. I wanted to see if I could reimagine the nostalgia of the popsicles but in a wholesome version. And with any luck, I could improve on them! I also wanted to add a “grown-up” touch by adding a splash of liquor. The amaretto ended up being the PERFECT compliment to the tart cherries. In fact, I may try to come up with another dessert incorporating the two. A cookie??
The best part of this was I could make this concoction for the kids (sans amaretto) AND the adults. It’s just as refreshing of a treat for those not wanting alcohol as it is for those who do.
Ingredients:
2 C. frozen pineapple
2 C. fresh pineapple chopped*
1/2 C. coconut milk
3 C. frozen cherries
1/4 C. honey
1/2 C. coconut milk
Disarrono Amaretto (optional)
Directions:
In a blender combine both frozen and fresh pineapple and coconut milk. Blend until smooth. Empty into large pitcher or use second blender pitcher if yours has one. Again, in blender combine frozen cherries, honey and coconut milk and bend till smooth. Once you have both mixtures complete, pour into glass alternating between cherry and pineapple to create layers. If you plan to add the amaretto, splash some between each layer adding as much or as little as you like.
*If you only have frozen pineapple on hand, increase to 4 cups and add an additional 1/2 cup of coconut milk.
This truly is SUCH an amazing, refreshing treat for the summer nights. I got rave reviews from my family and a text immediately after reminding me to send the recipe. 🙂 It’s not too sweet so it’s perfect for adults but it’s fun and just sweet enough to appeal to the kids.
