Having just returned from the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters of Cayo Santa Maria, I find myself to be…still in a holiday mode.
Cayo Santa Maria is one of the many islands of Cuba, just off its’ north central coast and lined with beautiful, luxurious, all inclusive resorts.
A typical breakfast for me was a plateful of their exotic fruits, usually consisting of pineapple, papaya and the most delicious and sweet tasting mangoes that I have ever laid eyes on.
We soon came to realize that the early bird gets the mango! They disappeared that quickly!
First opportunity I had on arriving back home was in visiting the local Farmer’s Market, where I went a little teensy, weensy overboard with the purchase of fresh fruits…how can one resist these gorgeous fruits, right!
Aside from the mangoes, pineapple and papaya, there were juicy strawberries and raspberries.
Gadelles du Quebec, sweet, aromatic clusters of pink currants.
Kiwis, figs and passion fruit.
I did also purchase a coconut but alas, I could not pry it open and now it sits on my kitchen counter till hubby (muscle man) gets home.
A well platted fruit platter makes a stunning centerpiece and a lovely alternative to sweet desserts. It’s just wonderful served as is or complimented with condiments such as honey, maple syrup, caramel and chocolate sauce.
I initially wanted to make a rum sauce to drizzle over the fruit but did I mention that I am still on a relaxed holiday mode….:)
Which now brings me to the dilemma of what to do with all this delicious fruit, aside from feeding the whole neighborhood that is!
Hence the inspiration for this Valentin Tropical Fruit Smoothie. Valentin, being the name of our resort.
Fruit smoothies are really quite simple to put together, making them an easy go to breakfast choice. You can use any fruit you have on hand. For a creamier consistency add a frozen banana and your favorite nut butter for an extra protein kick.
To thin the smoothie I used almond milk because that is what I had on hand but you can also use any non dairy milk, even coconut water or fruit juice.
Go ahead and give it a little extra love by topping your fruit smoothie with more fruit, a sprinkling of coconut, or even nuts and seeds.
I am sure it will become a favorite morning ritual.
Arrivederci Cuba, alla prossima!
Valentin Tropical Fruit Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 frozen banana
- 1 cup chopped mango
- 1 cup chopped papaya
- 1 cup chopped pineapple
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter I used organic creamy peanut butter)
- 1/2 cup almond milk
Instructions
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Place all ingredients in a blender.
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Blend till smooth.
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Pour into small serving bowls.
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Top with any fruit of your choice
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I used raspberries
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Gadelles du Quebec (pink champagne currants)
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Shredded sweetened coconut
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Cocoa Nibs
Yum Marisa! I am glad you had that nice tropical vacay! I have some fresh blueberries in the fridge, along with fresh peaches (although they may have expired by now) but I also have frozen raspberry and blackberries in the freezer. Methinks I’ll have to have a smoothie stat!
That is the best thing with smoothies, any fruit will do just fine! Enjoy xxx
Wow Marisa what nice memories!!!!!! Your blog looks just as delicious as the fruits in Cuba from the Valentin prelate Blanca hotel!!! I will defiantly enjoy this blog!!!!!!!! Good job!!!!!!!!!
Lol….thanks so much! You should try one right after your workout! Enjoy xxx
I like the punch of colours it’s nice to see in a country like Canada all these variety of fruits are available !
Pretty colourful selection that is just perfect!!
Marisa, the Caribbean shines through with both the glorious fruit display and smoothy, so glad that you were able to take a break. Such a presentation of color, flavor and texture simply magnificent.
Thanks so much bella Paula, it was a much needed break and it far surpassed our expectations❤️
Good day Marisa! I’m happy you enjoyed your stay in CSM and were blessed to spend time with your loved ones at this Valentin resort 🙂 Thank you for your creativity, writing skills, gorgeous pictures and talent. Buona fine di settimana xox
Mille Grazie Melany! That is so sweet and kind of you! We had a truly wonderful time xoxo ?
Such a wonderful selection of juicy fresh fruits. Everything looks so tasty! 🙂
Thanks Ronit…we do so enjoy our fruits?
I have been to the beaches of Cuba a few times and your post reminds me of the loveliness of it all including the people. The foods are so wonderful and fresh. Your photos are beautiful and I love the recipe. Adios
Teresa you are so right, the people were so friendly, the beach was gorgeous and we very much enjoyed the food! All in all, a wonderful vacation ?
This smoothie looks so pretty with all the fruit on top! Sounds delicious, too!
It really is, thanks Nancy! Take care 🙂
Sounds like a wonderful vacation Marisa! All that fresh fruit just calls my name!! The smoothie sounds incredible too! 🙂
Thanks Linda! It took me quite a few days to get back to my morning oatmeal ritual!
What a lovely vacation! Wow lovely fruits Marisa! I love this smoothie!
I can just imagine sipping this smoothie with the gorgeous views you have by your home Lynn!! Heaven!
Oh yes xxx
This smoothie sounds amazing, tropical smoothies are the best! And your pictures are just gorgeous!!!
After this smoothie, it really was difficult getting back into my oatmeal routine! Thanks so much 🙂