Pineapple-Cucumber Smoothie Recipe

By What’s Baking

A refreshing, tropical Pineapple-Cucumber Smoothie that balances sweet pineapple with cool cucumber for a vibrant, hydrating treat with a silky-smooth texture.

Difficulty:

Beginner

Prep Time:

10 mins

Cook Time:

0 mins

Serves:

2 smoothies

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"> <li class="ingredients-single-item">250g fresh pineapple chunks, plus extra for garnish</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 medium cucumber (approximately 200g), peeled and chopped</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">240ml coconut water (or filtered water)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">60ml coconut milk</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp fresh lime juice</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">8-10 ice cubes</li> <li class="ingredients-single-item">For garnish: coconut cream, pineapple wedges, cucumber slices</li> </ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"> <li class="equipment-single-item">High-speed blender</li> <li class="equipment-single-item">Fine mesh strainer (optional)</li> </ul>

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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4> If using fresh pineapple, cut away the outer skin and core, then chop into small chunks. For the cucumber, peel if desired (peeling creates a smoother texture but removes some nutrients), and chop into pieces. Freezing the pineapple and cucumber chunks for 30 minutes before blending will create a colder, thicker smoothie without diluting the flavors with too much ice. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4> Add the pineapple chunks, chopped cucumber, coconut water, coconut milk, honey or maple syrup (if using), and lime juice to your blender. The acid from the lime juice will help balance the sweetness of the pineapple and bring out the fresh flavors. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4> Add the ice cubes to the blender. Begin blending on low speed for 10-15 seconds to break down the larger chunks, then gradually increase to high speed. Blend for 1-2 minutes until perfectly smooth and no chunks remain. The smoothie should have a silky consistency with a light, frothy top. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4> Taste your smoothie and adjust sweetness if needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash more coconut water; if too thin, add more ice or frozen pineapple. For an extra-smooth texture, pour the smoothie through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing gently with a spoon to extract all the liquid. This step is optional but removes any fibrous bits. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4> Pour immediately into chilled glasses for the best temperature and texture. For an elegant presentation, swirl a small amount of coconut cream on top and garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and cucumber slices. The smoothie is best enjoyed immediately as separation may occur if left standing too long. </li> <li class="MethodStepper"> <h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4> For variations, try adding a handful of fresh mint or basil leaves for a herbal note, a small piece of peeled ginger for spice, or a scoop of vanilla protein powder to make it more substantial. Each addition brings a new dimension to this versatile smoothie base. </li> </ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving

🔥 Calories: 165 calories

🥑 Fat: 3 g

🧈 Saturated Fat: 2 g

🍞 Carbohydrates: 35 g

🍭 Sugar: 27 g

🍗 Protein: 2 g

🫀 Cholesterol: 0 mg

🧂 Sodium: 15 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I make this tropically-inspired smoothie ahead of time?

While best enjoyed immediately for optimal texture and flavour, you can prepare components ahead of time. Chop and freeze the pineapple and cucumber, then blend when ready. If storing a prepared smoothie, keep in an airtight container for up to 24 hours and re-blend briefly before serving.

What are the best ways to customise this refreshing beverage for different dietary needs?

For a lower-sugar version, omit the honey/maple syrup and use less pineapple. Make it protein-rich by adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder. For a thicker consistency, use frozen fruit or add half an avocado. Those with coconut allergies can substitute almond milk and plain water.

How does freezing the fruits affect the smoothie's texture and taste?

Freezing pineapple and cucumber chunks for 30 minutes before blending creates a colder, thicker smoothie without diluting flavours with excessive ice. This method enhances the creamy texture while preserving the bright, fresh taste of the ingredients and results in a more milkshake-like consistency.