For true mango lovers, it’s a sin to let even one fruit go to waste. Even if it’s bruised or a bird pecked out one side. Even if it’s mushy.

“My tree is producing oodles of fruit this year!” writes Jean Neuer of Kaneohe. “I am gifting. I am freezing. I am eating until I think I will turn a mango-orange color!”

Most people can figure out what to do with nice, firm fruit (peel, cut and eat is a good idea), but Neuer has suggestions for using those that might seem past their prime.

Throw that overripe fruit into a blender and puree, or simply mash it, then try out some of Neuer’s ideas, which run from simple to inspired and are easier than baking mango bread:

» Fruit spread: Combine with cream cheese, dehydrated onion flakes and garlic powder; spread on crackers or use to make tiny tea sandwiches.

» Easy ice cream: Stir into softened vanilla ice cream or sherbet.

» Smoothies: Blend with yogurt and crushed ice. A higher percentage of ice makes it a slush. Incorporate other ripe fruit such as bananas or berries.

» Cold soup: Blend with Greek yogurt and a squeeze of lemon juice; chill well.

» Salsa: Stir into any jar of pre-made salsa.

» Cookies: Add a dollop to oatmeal or shortbread batter (cut back on other liquid or add more flour); cinnamon and nutmeg complement mango.

» Pancakes: Serve puree on top or mix a little into your pancake batter, or both.

» Crepes: Top with puree and plain or flavored yogurt; add a pinch of sugar and roll up.

My contribution is an adaptation of an Associated Press recipe from 2012. Begin by cutting fruit into pieces and freezing solid.

Mango-Banana Soft Serve

» 1-1/2 cups frozen mango chunks
» 1 ripe banana
» 1/4 cup coconut cream (see note)
» Pinch salt
» 1 tablespoon orange juice
» Sugar, if needed, to taste

Combine fruit, coconut cream and salt in food processor. Pulse several times to roughly chop, then add juice. Process until very smooth. Taste and add sugar if needed. Serve immediately.

Note: Coconut cream is sold in cans, or chill coconut milk, then scoop solid part off top.

Nutritional information unavailable.

Write “By Request,” Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, Honolulu 96813, or email requests to bshimabukuro@staradvertiser.com.