Pineapple Cucumber Cooler

A refreshing, hydrating beverage blending sweet pineapple with crisp cucumber and a hint of lime. This no-added-sugar drink is rich in vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants, making it ideal for a tropical-inspired hydration boost or a light, cooling refreshment.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed (165g)
• 1/2 medium cucumber, peeled and chopped (150g)
• 1 cup cold water (240ml)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice (15ml)

Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Fine mesh sieve (optional, for smoother texture)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Pitcher or serving glasses

Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Peel and cube fresh pineapple, ensuring no core remains. Peel and chop cucumber into small pieces. Juice a lime to obtain 1 tablespoon of fresh juice.
2. Blend: Combine pineapple, cucumber, cold water, and lime juice in a blender or food processor. Blend on high for 30–60 seconds until smooth.
3. Strain (Optional): For a smoother texture, pour the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher or glass, pressing gently to extract liquid. Discard pulp.
4. Serve: Pour into glasses over ice. Garnish with a cucumber slice, pineapple wedge, or lime wheel, if desired.
5. Chill (Optional): If not serving immediately, refrigerate for up to 1 hour to keep cold.

Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Servings: 2 (approximately 1 cup or 240ml each)
• Calories: 70 kcal
• Macronutrients:
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 0g (0g saturated)
  • Carbohydrates: 16g (2g fiber, 12g sugars)
• Micronutrients (approximate % Daily Value):
  • Vitamin C: 50% (from pineapple and lime)
  • Vitamin K: 10% (from cucumber)
  • Potassium: 8% (from pineapple and cucumber)
  • Manganese: 15% (from pineapple)
• Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredient data. For precise calculations, use a nutritional analysis tool with your exact ingredients.

Health Benefits

• Digestive Support: Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids protein digestion and may reduce bloating.
• Hydration: Cucumber’s 95% water content and pineapple’s high water content make this drink excellent for hydration, supporting skin health and bodily functions.
• Immune Boost: High vitamin C content from pineapple and lime supports immune function, collagen formation, and antioxidant defense.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Bromelain in pineapple and antioxidants in cucumber may help reduce inflammation.
• Low Calorie: With no added sugars, this beverage is suitable for weight management or low-calorie diets.
• Bone Health: Pineapple provides manganese, which supports bone development and connective tissue health.

Tips

• Storage: Consume immediately for optimal freshness and nutrient retention. If necessary, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day; stir or shake before serving.
• Substitutions: Replace lime juice with lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note. Use coconut water instead of plain water for added electrolytes and a subtle sweetness.
• Texture Adjustment: Skip straining for a thicker, pulpier drink with increased fiber (fiber content rises to ~3g per serving). Strain twice for an ultra-smooth consistency.
• Flavor Boost: Add 3–5 fresh mint leaves before blending for a refreshing twist, or include a small piece of ginger (1/4 inch) for a zesty kick.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve in chilled glasses or add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy variation.

This Pineapple Cucumber Cooler is a vibrant, nutrient-packed beverage that delivers hydration, digestive support, and a burst of tropical flavor.