Pineapple Coconut Smoothie

The pineapple coconut smoothie is a simple and delicious smoothie made from pineapple, coconut milk, hemp seeds, and coconut water. This recipe is creamy, filling, and a refreshing way to kick off the day or give you an afternoon boost.

Editor's note: This recipe was originally published on October 10, 2016. Since then, it’s been freshened up with new pictures, commentary, and made even more delicious.

Smoothies are one of my favorite ways of sneaking in plenty of fruits and veggies into my diet throughout the day. Whether it's a strawberry banana smoothie, strawberry ginger smoothie or classic blueberry smoothie, smoothies only take a few minutes to make and are a convenient breakfast or snack option.

I'm excited to add this pineapple coconut smoothie to the collection as it's refreshing, simple, and perfect for summer. Made with only 5 ingredients, this smoothie comes together in 5 minutes.

Ingredients you'll need

• Light coconut milk: For a more filling smoothie, replace half of the amount with full-fat coconut milk.
• Pineapple: Fresh pineapple is best but if you prefer a thicker smoothie consistency, it's best to use frozen pineapple. I like to chop a fresh pineapple and freeze for smoothies.
• Yogurt: For a boost in protein, use Greek yogurt. If vegan, use coconut yogurt.
• Hemp seeds: Also known as hemp hearts. These can be omitted entirely if you don't have any on hand.
• Medjool date: If using a standard blender, be sure to soak the date for 15 minutes in water so it's easier to blend. If using a high-speed blender, soaking isn't necessary. Alternatively, this smoothie can be sweetened with honey, maple syrup or omitted completely.

How to make a pineapple coconut smoothie

1. Soak the Medjool dates: This is especially important if you don't have a high-speed blender as it will make them blend easier.

2. Add ingredients to blender: Add the pineapple, hemp seeds, coconut water, coconut milk, dates, and ice.

3. Blend until smooth and creamy: Depending on the type of blender you have, this may take 30 seconds to a minute.

4. Serve: Enjoy immediately or store in an air-tight glass jar for later in the fridge.

Top tips and variations

Save time: Buy pre-cut pineapple from the frozen section of the grocery store to save time. I like to chop up fresh pineapple and freeze it for later.

Add more protein: Add a scoop of your favorite vanilla protein powder to add a boost of protein. Alternatively, use Green yogurt instead of regular yogurt for more protein.

Add some fat: Add a serving of peanut butter or almond butter for a boost in fats. Alternatively, add ¼ cup of avocado (I like to dice and freeze avocado for smoothies) for extra fat and creaminess.

Add a superfood: Add a serving of chia seeds to this smoothie for an added superfood.

Adjust the thickness: If you’d prefer a thinner smoothie, add in more almond milk. For a thicker smoothie, add a few more ice cubes.

Sweeten with banana: If you’re not a fan of dates, use a ripe banana to add both sweetness and creaminess. I like to chop up a banana and freeze it to make my smoothies even thicker.

More smoothie recipes

Looking for more easy smoothies to make? Try these out the following:

• Tropical Matcha Smoothie
• Kale Pineapple Smoothie
• Power Breakfast Smoothie
• Morning Green Smoothie
• Chocolate Zucchini Smoothie

Did you try this pineapple coconut smoothie recipe? Leave a comment below and rate the recipe to let us know how it turned out. Be sure to tag us on Real + Vibrant’s Instagram to show us your creation.