Just the mere mention of a Strawberry Colada conjures up wonderful vacation memories. The first time I had one was on the very first cruise The Husband and I went on, before we were married, over 10 years ago. This past February, when we took to the seas again, Strawberry Coladas quickly became a favorite of Nicholas’ as well. No surprise there, given the colorful umbrella and cherries they are bedecked with. Surprisingly enough, the non-alcoholic version of the drink is only twenty-five cents cheaper – go figure. Whether we were sailing into Key West, Cozumel, or Costa Maya, they were a perfect way to kick back and enjoy the sunset at the end of a day of sightseeing.
The other day, when I was reading Rachael Ray’s cookbook, GetTogethers, I happened to notice a recipe for Lava Flows. This is exactly why it’s a good reason to curl up with a good cookbook every now and then – had I not done that, I would have very easily skipped right by this recipe, especially since nothing about the title says Strawberry Colada to me. I mean, Lava Flows? C’mon, Rach. But after reading through the list of ingredients and the method, I realized it was just her silly name for one of my favorite drinks. I tend to be drawn to the fruity cocktails; guess I just don’t like the taste of raw alcohol enough to have it more uncovered.
With our next vacation exactly 47 days away (did you hear that, The Neighbors?! FORTY SEVEN DAYS TO GO!) , I knew this would be a perfect thing to get us into the mood. I created a non-alcoholic batch so Nicholas and my stepdaughter could enjoy the drink with us tonight – complete with frilly umbrella. Delicious, cool and refreshing, whether you’re counting down to a vacation or not, it’s a perfect drink to while away your cares.
Bottoms Up!
Until tomorrow… off to watch movies with the kids.
Lava Flows
Recipe courtesy of Rachael Ray
(also known as Strawberry Coladas)
3 cups frozen sliced strawberries in juice, defrosted
2 cans coconut milk drink mix (such as Coco Lopez)
3 cups pineapple juice
6 shots of coconut rum or light rum
1 tray of ice cubes
Blend strawberries in a blender on high speed until smooth. Place half a cup of the strawberry puree in the bottom of six hurricane or double rock cocktail glasses. Rinse blender and return to base. Place remaining ingredients in blender and blend on high until smooth. Pour pina colada into glasses on top of the strawberry puree. The puree will run up through the pina colada, creating a lava flow effect.
Notes: These can be made as mocktails for the kids – just omit the liquor and add extra ice.
Thanks for sharing the recipe for lava flows. That is what they (strawberry coladas) are called anywhere you go in Hawaii. I fell in love with them!
Ohhhh, now the name makes sense. :) Whatever the name, they’re divine.