The tropics are generally considered to be those regions of the world located near the equator. Whether your thoughts turn to the Carribean, the South Pacific, Mexico, Hawai'i, Africa or South America, there are no doubt certain foods that come to mind when you hear the word "tropical." There are tropical cuisines that range from the hot and spicy to the very simple and cool. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Appetizers
Fruit appetizers are always appreciated by guests that are watching their weight. Just cut up bite-sized pieces of popular tropical fruits such as papaya, pineapple, mango and banana and stick toothpicks in them for easy grabbing. Set out bowls of tropical nuts, such as macadamias. For something a bit more upscale, mix together some crabmeat, mayonnaise, parmesan cheese and chopped artichoke hearts to taste, and spread the mixture on crackers.
Main Course
Fish are natural as the centerpiece of a tropical main dish. Consider filets of a light fish, such as mahi-mahi or even sole, dipped in crushed macadamia nuts and then baked, or sauteed. Teriyaki or sweet and sour chicken are tropical dishes that won't break your budget. Ham with pineapple can lend a luau feel to a meal.
Dessert
A small bowl containing a scoop of coffee ice cream, studded with a large macadamia nut cookie is very Polynesian. Coconut pudding, or haupi'a, is another dish from the tropics and is very easy to make. Ice cream balls rolled in coconut or nuts, halved papaya with a scoop of ice cream in the center, and, of course, any type of pineapple cake can all lend tropical flavors to dessert.
Beverages
Coconut milk blended with ice is delicious, with or without the addition of rum or vodka. For other non-alcoholic beverages consider guava, pineapple or passion fruit juice on ice. Don't forget the paper umbrellas and a slice of fresh fruit on the rim of the glass.
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