The Caribbean taught me something essential about fruit: when it's perfect, get out of its way. A ripe mango needs no apology, no complicated technique, no culinary intervention. It needs only a blender and someone wise enough to let it shine.

This smoothie belongs to the tradition of batidos found throughout the islands, those thick fruit drinks served from roadside stands and beachfront shacks. The frozen banana provides body without dairy. The coconut milk adds richness that feels indulgent but isn't heavy. And the lime, that essential squeeze of acid, pulls everything into focus the way a good frame completes a painting.

I've made this for breakfast on sweltering August mornings and for afternoon refreshment when the humidity makes thinking difficult. It travels well in a thermos to the beach or the backyard. Double the batch when friends are coming. They'll want seconds.