“This pumpkin-pineapple cooler is definitely a crowd pleaser. Hands down. The pineapple combined with the pumpkin is like a match made in heaven with the ginger and lime juice serving as maid-of-honour and best man. This drink is healthy as it is refreshing and ideal for the summer heat.” – Chef Noel Cunningham, Cuisine by Noel  

(Makes 4 servings)

2 cups pumpkin, peeled and chopped

1/2 lb pineapple

3 cups water

1 lime, juiced

1-inch piece of ginger, skin removed

1/4 cup granulated sugar

Boil pumpkin in reasonable amount of water as it will be needed to blend the pumpkin and pineapple. Once cooked, let both water and pumpkin cool.

In a blender, add pineapple, pumpkin (with water) and ginger; blend on high speed until everything is well blended together. Add sugar and stir well until sugar is dissolved. Test for taste and if not sweet enough, add sugar to your desired sweetness along with lime juice.

Strain juice through a fine-mesh sieve. Serve immediately.

Serving tip: before serving, add a few ice cubes to the glasses and place in the refrigerator to chill for a colder beverage.