imagine escaping the mundanity of everyday life with a sweet treat, or dish, that brightens your mood and transports you to the tropics; that’s what coconut and lime does for me.

when I lived in New York City, sweltering, summer days were always punctuated by a visit to the petite street vendors that sold $3 italian ice. my flavor of choice: coconut and lime.

this duo satisfies all the senses. perhaps, it’s the green from the lime which is easy on the eye, or it’s the heavenly smell of coconut that makes one feel as if you’re on a cloud?

but coconut and lime isn’t just reserved for desserts. it also pairs well on seafood, stews, soups, and rice. like the espresso craze I had last summer, I have a new obsession—something versatile for heartier dishes, yet light enough to be enjoyed as summer nears.

I came up with the coconut lime fresca during the holy month as I searched for new beverages. it’s refreshing, justly sweet, and hydrating.

as always, the recipe is simple: 1 ½ cup of coconut milk (sweetened), lime zest, ⅓ cup lime juice, 3 tbsp sweetened condensed milk, crushed ice, himalayan pink salt, and a portable blender.

Step 1: First, on low heat, place 1 ½ cup of coconut milk (sweetened) atop stove.

Step 2: Next, add the zest from 1-2 limes and stir.

Step 3: Add the juice from both limes, roughly ⅓ cup, and stir. To ensure I yield the maximum amount of lime juice, I place two limes in the microwave for 15 seconds.

Step 4: Add 2 tbsp of sweetened condensed milk. *I also add the used limes to the pot, but this is optional.

Step 5: Stir constantly and add a dash of Himalayan pink salt to balance the acidity and sugar.

Step 6: At this point, I remove the mixture from the stove and let cool in room temperature for 45 minutes; you can also refrigerate.

Step 7: To your blender, add a couple handfuls of crushed ice and 1 tbsp of sweetened condensed milk before pouring the cooled liquid.

Step 8: Garnish the top with lime zest and enjoy.

anyways, I hope this helps you in your eating journey.

love & madness,