Did you know that your pineapple cores don’t have to go to waste? The core is too tough and fibrous to be enjoyable eaten raw, but after freezing, it makes a great addition to smoothies, tastes a little more muted than the rest of the pineapple, and is scrumptious paired with coconut milk. Ella loves her smoothies thick and served in the cap of our cocktail shaker because it’s in the shape of an ice cream cone. She, naturally, calls it smoothie ice cream and will ask for 5 or 6 refills in the metal “cone”. A little creativity really helps make healthy food fun for toddlers!
Blueberry Pineapple Smoothie
1 banana, peeled and frozen
1 cup pineapple core, cut into chunks and frozen
1 cup coconut milk
3/4 – 1 cup cow’s milk or nondairy alternative (depending on desired consistency)
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1/2 t. ground ginger
1 t. honey
Place all items in blender and process until smooth. I had a very thick smoothie using 3/4 cup milk and 1 cup coconut milk, but that’s how my daughter likes it so she can pretend it’s ice cream. Add a little more milk if you prefer it thinner.
Makes about 32 oz. Serves 4
Raised from Scratch 