Yes, I realize this picture was taken with a martini glass.  It was my closest option to a margarita glass... don't judge!

These babies are named after the island in the Florida Keys that I've been staying on this past week.  We've explored all of the keys, but it's always nice to come home to a place to just wind down by a pool in the evening and read!  In case anyone's interested, I've already gotten through To Kill a Mockingbird (not my first time reading it) and the sequel, Go Set a Watchman.   The first always gets to me, and the writing is just as good in the second one. The plot isn't very developed, but I liked it for what it was.  However, the changes that the characters from the first book have undergone by the time the second book happens may shock you!  Don't worry, I won't say any more than that.

This recipe is one I've whipped up a few times and it's always a delicious treat!  I don't normally drink alcohol, but I'm on vacation so what the heck.  This is just as good as a virgin smoothie, though, too!

Islamorada Piña Coladas

Prep Time: 5 minutes   Cook time: None   Total time: 5 minutes

Yield: 2 large or 4 small drinks

Directions

Ingredients

  1.  For either variation, throw all ingredients into a blender.  I'd recommend putting the ice first, followed by the fruits and then finished off with the liquid.  It gets the hard stuff closest to the blender.
  2. Blend beginning on medium speed, then increase to high once the big pieces are gone.
  3. Continue blending until smooth.  Serve in glasses of your choice, with extra pieces of fruit or shredded coconut as garnish.

Sweet Variation

1 banana

1 1/2 cups pineapple

1/2 cup coconut water

1/2 cup coconut milk

12 large ice cubes

2oz rum of choice (can omit or use more/

less to your liking)

Tangy Variation

2 1/2 cups pineapple

1/2 cup coconut water

1/2 cup coconut milk

15 large ice cubes

2oz rum of choice (again, adjust to taste/tolerance)