Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Longan & Pineapple Oats Smoothie Recipe – Easy Coconut Milk Blend

Introduction

Okay, you guys, let me tell you about this smoothie! I stumbled upon longan fruit at my local Indian grocery store a while back, and I was instantly intrigued. It looks a bit like a lychee, but has a unique, subtly floral flavor. I’ve been experimenting with it ever since, and this Longan & Pineapple Oats Smoothie is the result. It’s creamy, refreshing, and surprisingly filling – perfect for a quick breakfast or a healthy afternoon snack. Plus, it’s super easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another fruit smoothie. The oats give it a lovely thickness and a boost of fiber to keep you going. The coconut milk adds a tropical creaminess without being overly heavy. And the longan and pineapple? They’re a match made in smoothie heaven! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s both healthy and incredibly delicious.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this amazing smoothie:

• ?? cup Oats (about 1/2 cup is a good starting point)
• 150 ml Unsweetened Coconut Milk (about ⅔ cup)
• 6 Peeled and Pitted Longan Fruits
• ?? cup Chilled Pineapple Juice (about 1 cup)
• 1 tbsp Dates Syrup (optional)
• 1 Peeled and Sliced Banana

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Oats: Types and Nutritional Benefits

I usually use rolled oats for this recipe, but quick-cooking oats work in a pinch. Avoid instant oats, as they can make the smoothie a bit too mushy. Oats are fantastic for you – packed with fiber, they help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Coconut Milk: Choosing the Right Kind

Full-fat coconut milk will give you the richest, creamiest smoothie. However, you can use light coconut milk to reduce the fat content. Just be aware that it might not be quite as thick. I prefer the canned variety for the best flavor and texture.

Longan Fruit: A Unique Tropical Flavor

Longan is a small, round fruit with a brownish shell and sweet, translucent flesh. It’s popular in Southeast Asian cuisine and is known for its slightly floral and musky flavor. You can usually find it fresh or canned at Asian grocery stores.

Pineapple Juice: Fresh vs. Packaged

Freshly squeezed pineapple juice is always best, if you have the time! But a good quality, unsweetened packaged pineapple juice works perfectly well too. Just make sure it’s chilled for the most refreshing smoothie.

Dates Syrup: Natural Sweetener Option

Dates syrup adds a lovely caramel-like sweetness. If you don’t have it, you can use maple syrup, honey, or even a few pitted dates blended in with the other ingredients. It’s totally up to you!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get blending!

1. First, pour your coconut milk into a jar and add the oats. Give it a little stir, then pop it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the oats soften and creates a super creamy texture.
2. Now, take your soaked oats and coconut milk and pour them into a blender. Blend until it’s a really smooth paste – no chunky bits allowed!
3. Add the peeled and pitted longan fruits, chilled pineapple juice, and banana slices to the blender. If you’re using dates syrup, add that in too.
4. Whizz everything together until it’s frothy and smooth. If it’s too thick, add a splash more pineapple juice. If it’s too thin, add a few more oats.
5. Pour into chilled glasses and enjoy immediately! Seriously, this is best when it’s nice and cold.

Expert Tips

A few little secrets to make this smoothie even better:

Soaking Oats for Creaminess

Don’t skip the soaking step! It really does make a difference in the texture. The oats plump up and become wonderfully creamy.

Achieving the Perfect Smoothie Consistency

The amount of liquid you need will depend on your blender and the thickness you prefer. Start with less liquid and add more gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Blending Techniques for a Frothy Texture

Blend on high speed for at least 30 seconds to get that lovely frothy texture. A high-powered blender will give you the best results.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

Vegan Adaptation

This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just double-check your dates syrup if you’re being super strict.

Spice Level Adjustment (Optional – Ginger/Cardamom)

My friend, Priya, loves adding a tiny pinch of ground cardamom or a small piece of grated ginger to her smoothie for a little extra warmth. It’s delicious!

Festival Adaptation (Summer Cooling Drink)

This is perfect for hot summer days. It’s incredibly cooling and refreshing. My family loves it after a day at the beach.

Adjusting Sweetness Levels

If you prefer a less sweet smoothie, simply omit the dates syrup or use less of it. You can always add a little more if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This smoothie is great on its own, but you can also get creative with toppings! Try adding a sprinkle of shredded coconut, a few slices of fresh fruit, or a drizzle of honey.

Storage Instructions

This smoothie is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be aware that it may separate, so you’ll need to give it a good stir before drinking.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Can I use other types of milk instead of coconut milk?

Absolutely! Almond milk, soy milk, or even regular dairy milk will work. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.

What are the health benefits of longan fruit?

Longan fruit is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. It’s also believed to have calming properties.

Can this smoothie be made ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Soak the oats and chop the fruit, then store them separately in the refrigerator.

Is dates syrup necessary for sweetness?

No, it’s optional! The pineapple and banana provide some natural sweetness.

Can I add protein powder to this smoothie?

Definitely! A scoop of your favorite protein powder will make it even more filling and nutritious.

What if I don’t have fresh longan? Can I use dried?

You can use dried longan, but you’ll need to rehydrate it first. Soak the dried longan in warm water for about 30 minutes before adding it to the blender.