Hello Foodie Friends,

Did you know that July 17th is National Piña Colada Day?!? Well if you didn’t, now you do!!! It is a day dedicated to honoring the tropical flavors and refreshing goodness of the Piña Colada cocktail. 

The Piña Colada is a delicious blend of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice. The year is 1954. Ramón “Monchito” Marrero is a bartender at the Caribe Hilton Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He is a talented mixologist with a passion for creating new and innovative drinks. One day, he is experimenting with different ingredients when he comes up with a delicious blend of pineapple juice, coconut cream, and white rum. He calls the drink the Piña Colada, which means “strained pineapple” in Spanish.

The Piña Colada is an instant hit with guests at the Caribe Hilton. It is the perfect drink for the tropical climate, and it is a delicious combination of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. Soon, the Piña Colada is being served in bars and restaurants all over Puerto Rico.

Today, the Piña Colada is a delicious and refreshing drink that perfectly captures the spirit of the Caribbean. It became a beloved drink all over the world,

This celebration offers the perfect excuse to gather with friends or family and enjoy this delicious cocktail, that is why I share with you a Piña Colada home recipe and a perfect pairing for each meal to enjoy with a Piña Colada.

Here is a home recipe for piña colada:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks

• 1/2 cup pineapple juice

• 1/4 cup coconut cream

• 2 ounces white rum

• Ice cubes

Instructions:

In a blender, combine the frozen pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, coconut cream, rum, and ice cubes. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh pineapple, maraschino cherries, and paper umbrellas (optional).

Tips: For a richer flavor, use full-fat coconut cream. If you don’t have frozen pineapple, you can use fresh pineapple, but you will need to add more ice cubes to the blender. You can adjust the sweetness of the piña colada by adding more or less coconut cream. To make a virgin piña colada, simply omit the rum.  Enjoy!

For breakfast: 

Waffles with fruit: Waffles are a classic breakfast food that can be topped with fresh fruit, such as pineapple, strawberries, mango, or banana. The sweetness of the fruit complements the sweetness of the piña colada. Pairing it with a piña colada is a great way to start your day. The tropical flavors of the cocktail will transport you to a beachside paradise, even if you’re stuck at home.

For lunch:

Grilled fish tacos: The sweetness of the piña colada pairs well with the savory flavor of the fish. The grilled fish also adds a touch of smoke to the dish, which helps to balance out the sweetness of the cocktail. Pairing it with a piña colada is a great way to enjoy a tropical treat in the middle of the day.

For dinner: 

Grilled chicken or tofu: The grilled chicken or tofu provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the piña colada. The grilled flavor also adds a touch of smoke to the dish, which helps to balance out the sweetness of the cocktail.  Pairing it with a piña colada is a great way to enjoy a tropical treat at the end of the day.

So, on National Piña Colada Day, raise your glass and toast to the refreshing and tropical flavors of this beloved cocktail. Let the Piña Colada transport you to a state of blissful relaxation and remind you of the joys of summer. Cheers to National Piña Colada Day!

Until we eat (and drink) again…

I send you Delicious Wishes, xo

Denise