Happy Friday everyone! I am excited for the long holiday weekend and am ready for fireworks, good BBQ and our white water rafting adventure in the mountains! Anyone have any big plans for the 4th?

I don’t have a special red, white and blue recipe to post (yet) but does this strawberry smoothie on a blue backdrop count? At least the colors are festive! This thick and creamy smoothie is more than easy to prepare and perfect for the summer heat with a taste of the tropics from coconut milk and mango. If you do not have mango, pineapple would be a good substitute or even a yummy addition! To bulk up the protein, feel free to add a scoop of your favorite protein powder (vanilla or unflavored would work here). I’ve also been told this recipe would also be delicious with a shot of rum for a poolside or beachside adult beverage…

*On a side note, I baked up another rice crust pizza for lunch today and posted step-by-step photo instructions for those of you who are interested and wanted to give it a whirl.

Tropical Strawberry Mango Smoothie 

Ingredients

1 cup frozen* chopped strawberries
1/3 cup frozen mango chunks
2 Tbsp coconut cream (makes it more decadent but could sub more coconut milk if desired)
3/4 cup unsweetened plain coconut milk from carton (vanilla would be delicious too)

Shredded unsweetened coconut for garnish, optional
Fresh whole strawberry for garnish, optional

Directions

1. Add all ingredients in a blender (except garnishes). Blend for 1 minute or until smooth. Pour into a glass, garnish if desired and enjoy!

*You can use fresh berries and mango but you will need to add crushed ice cubes to chill the drink. Using frozen fruit is my preferred method to create a thicker and creamier result but may take a little planning ahead, unless you purchase the already frozen variety.

I also have a special treat to share with you soon…can you guess what this is?