Pineapple Lassi

Pineapple lassi is a unique variation on traditional lassi flavors like Mango Lassi.  You won’t find this version easily at Indian restaurants!

Simple ingredients are used and you can optionally make it vegan.

It has a delicious taste that can remind you of pina coladas – except healthier!

I have a tip on an ingredient to use for restaurant-style lassi and ideas for variations of the drink.

This thick, frothy classic Indian yogurt drink is perfect to pair with Indian dishes or just enjoy on hot days!

It is a simple recipe that uses whole milk yogurt which is mixed with milk or water and a few other ingredients to become a refreshing, easy drink. The top of the lassi is usually frothy. 

There are many types of lassi.  Sweet versions include Sweet Lassi Recipe, Rose Lassi, Kesar Lassi, and Banana Lassi.

Salty lassi, Mint Lassi, and Masala Lassi are savory, popular lassi options!

Ingredient Notes

All you need is 4 main ingredients to make this refreshing pineapple yogurt drink.

Below are ingredient notes. Full ingredients and directions are in the printable recipe card at the end of the post.

Yogurt: One of the main ingredients is yogurt/curd.  The creamier, thicker lassi you want, the higher fat content yogurt you should use. 

I recommend using full-fat whole milk plain yogurt or Greek Yogurt.  If I want a delicious rich lassi, I go all out and use Fage 5% Greek Yogurt. 

Pineapple: I used canned pineapple pieces for convenience.  You can also use fresh pineapple pieces.  

Slices look great as a garnish.

Milk or Water: Similar to above, if you want a creamier lassi, use whole milk.  If you’d like a lighter version, use 2% milk or water.

Sugar:  A little sugar is needed but the amount can vary depending on how sweet your strawberries are and your preference for sweetener.

In place of sugar, use your favorite sweetener.

Ice Cubes:  Optional if you plan on chilling the lassi but I think it tastes more “restaurant-style” if blended in, especially if you are making a very thick lassi.

Vegan Pineapple Lassi

This can be made vegan by substituting dairy milk and yogurt for vegan alternatives.  

I recommend creamy oat milk (I use Planet Oat if you are US based) or any creamy vegan milk and your favorite plain plant-based yogurt.

Variations

You can change up the base of this lassi by adding a little additional flavor with these optional mix-ins.

Ginger: 1/2 inch of ginger of fresh ginger is a delicious complementary taste.

Mint: I love this during the summer! Add a handful of mint leaves when blending.

Rose water:  Pineapple and rose are a delight together! It adds a light floral taste.  Start with one-two teaspoons and taste and adjust.  Some rose water brands are stronger than others. 

Mint flavor notes make it one of the most refreshing drinks.

Mango: Add some mangoes for a truly tropical treat for more flavor. Start with half a cup of mango chunks to make pineapple mango lassi.

This makes for the perfect summer drink!

Basil: Fresh basil is another delightful flavor in the summertime for a fun twist.

Coconut: Coconut water and light coconut milk can be substituted for milk/water in this recipe.  You’ll get a light pina colada-type taste!

Making Lassi

1.Place puree, milk, yogurt, sugar, and ice cubes (if using) into a blender jar.  You can also add in other optional mix-ins such as ginger or mint leaves now (see variations section).  Blend.

2. Pour lassi into serving tall glasses.  Optionally garnish with mint leaves or a pineapple slice.

Tips

Traditionally a wooden churner is used to mix the drink and make it frothy. But don’t worry the blender gets it nice and frothy too.

You can play around with the amount of water/milk as well to make a thicker lassi.  Less water and ice cubes will still result in a yummy drink.

1.If you want a thick, creamy restaurant-style lassi, go with all higher fat-content ingredients.  For example, whole milk, whole milk plain yogurt, half & half, and sugar. You’ll get the same taste as you get in an Indian restaurant.

2. If you want a middle-of-the-road lassi, mix and match.  Maybe you will use whole milk yogurt, water, half and a half (for a tiny bit of creaminess), and sugar.

3. Or, you could go for a lighter version.  In that case, maybe you will pick a low-fat yogurt, water, and sugar.

It is also a fasting/vrat friendly drink!

Have you tried this creamy, tropical pineapple lassi recipe? If so, I would greatly appreciate it if you could take a moment to leave a comment and rate it with stars. It would mean a lot to me to hear how it turned out. If you’re on Instagram, please tag me so I can see your creation. Thank you for your support!