One of my favorite things about summertime is serving smoothies with the kids’ lunches. They’re easy to make, refreshing and good for them too. Oh and bonus point for finding one that everyone likes. This smoothie fits the bill. I like that I often have all the ingredients on hand.  Just remember to plan ahead and freeze the fruit at breakfast time (or the night before!) so it’s ready for lunchtime.

As with most other smoothies, this one is very versatile. Swap out the coconut extract for vanilla extract.  Use orange juice instead of pineapple juice. Have fun with it!

Simple & Easy Tropical Smoothie
Adapted from Money Saving Mom
Makes 2-3 servings

• 1 ripe banana, cut into pieces and frozen for several hours
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, frozen for several hours (you can use fresh or canned)
• 3 Tablespoons frozen orange juice concentrate
• ½ cup milk (any kind will work)
• ½ cup pineapple juice (using canned pineapple makes it easy since you can just set aside the juice when you freeze the chunks)
• 2 TBSP shredded coconut, optional
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract
• 6 ice cubes
• 1-2 TBSP honey