Fresh, Sweet, and Easy!
Notes on a sweet fruit, summer vibes, and simple ways enjoy them all
New places, new perspective
I just arrived in Brazil, and as much as I love seeing family and friends, the highlight is always the food. There's a common idea that Brazilians eat healthier than Americans, and sure, we do eat more fresh fruit and home-cooked meals, but let’s be honest: we also love our fried snacks, salty dishes, and plenty of meat.
Still, there’s a balance that makes it all work. At even the most casual all-you-can-eat restaurant, you’ll find a whole spread of salads, legumes, and vegetables. And my favorite part: juices made with real fruit. Some are blended fresh, others come from frozen pulp, but either way, it’s just fruit and water. Sugar is optional.
That’s where this week’s ingredient comes in. After a plate loaded with black beans, sausage, grilled meat, and more legumes than I could name, something that supports digestion was very welcome.
Pineapple
There’s something about pineapple that just feels like summer. Maybe it’s the bold tropical flavor, maybe it’s the juicy sweetness, or maybe it’s the fact that this fruit practically demands to be enjoyed under the sun, cold, fresh, and dripping down our fingers.
But pineapple isn’t just a poolside treat. It’s packed with benefits that make it a smart (and tasty) addition to our day.
Let’s start with digestion.
Pineapple contains a natural enzyme called bromelain, which helps your body break down proteins and ease the work your stomach has to do, especially after heavier meals. It’s one reason pineapple often shows up in meat marinades and digestive teas.
Bromelain is also linked to mucus relief.
Yup. If you’re dealing with a lingering cold, allergies, or sinus congestion, this enzyme might help loosen things up a bit. Add some mint and you’ve got a cooling, refreshing combo that’s also gently soothing for your respiratory system.
And then there’s the vitamin C.
One cup of pineapple has more than 80% of your daily needs. Vitamin C is a powerhouse when it comes to supporting the immune system, fighting inflammation, and even helping your skin bounce back after too much sun. It’s an antioxidant that works hard behind the scenes, and pineapple is an easy, delicious way to get more of it.
A quick look at how pineapple is grown:
It takes almost two years to grow a single pineapple!
The fruit grows low to the ground, on top of a spiky plant, and each one takes 18 to 24 months to mature. No wonder it used to be a symbol of luxury. In 17th-century Europe, pineapples were so rare and prized that hosts would rent them just to impress guests. (Yes, rent. Like a floral centerpiece you couldn’t eat.)
Today, pineapple is grown all over the tropics. From Costa Rica and the Philippines to Thailand, India, and Brazil.
You can enjoy it fresh, canned, or frozen (which works beautifully in smoothies and juices). Just watch out for sugary syrups in some canned varieties if you're aiming for a lighter option.
And of course, we can’t end this without addressing the elephant in the pizzeria:
There’s no middle ground, but if you're team “pineapple belongs,” just know you’ve got my full support (and a slice saved).
This week, let’s keep it simple and fresh, just what summer calls for. That’s why I’m sharing more ways to use pineapple in everyday drinks.
Pineapple + Mint Juice
(the one I had at the restaurant and inspired today’a post)
Ingredients:
1/2 cup frozen pineapple
2 cups cold water (or coconut water)
5–6 fresh mint leaves
How to make:
Add everything to a blender and blend until smooth. That’s it!
Notes: Skip the sugar or sweetener. Pineapple is naturally sweet, and adding anything extra tends to dull the refreshing, clean taste. Coconut water can give a sweet touch just right, if you need it.
Frozen Pineapple + Sparkling Water
Ingredients:
A handful of frozen pineapple chunks
Sparkling water (plain or flavored)
Ice (optional)
How to make:
Add the frozen pineapple to a glass, let it sit a minute or two so the pineapple softens and releases more flavor, then pour the sparkling water over it..
Pineapple + Spinach Green Juice
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh spinach
1 cup pineapple (fresh or frozen)
2 small mandarin oranges
2 cups water or coconut water
How to make:
Blend until smooth. Enjoy!
Notes:
This juice comes out green, but the pineapple flavor still shines through.
Creamy juice, sweet and child approved.
Travel more
I love to travel, but travel doesn’t have to mean booking a flight. It could be a weekend trip to a nearby city, or even just crossing town to a different neighborhood, a new café, or a restaurant you’ve never tried.
The idea is simple: explore and see something new.
Taste food you didn’t grow up eating. Listen for new sounds, accents, and rhythms.
And if it’s way too hot to leave the house, you can still enjoy a tour. Watch a documentary about life in another part of the world. Let your imagination do the traveling.
Following last post’s theme of curiosity, try being curious about how people live in other places. It’s a beautiful way to feel more connected and to gently expand how we see and live our own lives. That’s why travel is one of my favorite things, even in small ways.
That’s all for today. Thanks for being here!
Until next time,
