Summer’s here, and with it, the relentless sun. While we love the long days and warm evenings, staying hydrated and cool should be your priority. Forget sugary sodas and artificial flavors; this summer, let’s embrace the refreshing bounty of seasonal fruits and herbs to create delicious, homemade drinks that will quench your thirst and revitalize your spirit.
Best Homemade Summer Drinks to Try This Summer
Here are five easy-to-make summer drink recipes that will keep you cool and refreshed:
1. Watermelon Mint Cooler:
Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit, packed with water and electrolytes. Combined with the cooling sensation of mint, it’s a winning combination.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups cubed watermelon (seedless)
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Ice
- Optional: Sparkling water or a splash of honey for sweetness
- Instructions:
- Combine watermelon, mint leaves, and lime juice in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any pulp.
- Pour over ice and top with sparkling water if desired.
- Add honey to sweeten to taste.
- Garnish with a mint sprig and a small wedge of watermelon.
2. Iced Hibiscus Tea (Agua de Jamaica):
This vibrant red drink is not only beautiful but also incredibly refreshing. Hibiscus is known for its cooling properties and tangy flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 6 cups water
- Sugar, honey, or agave to taste
- Ice
- Optional: Lime or lemon wedges
- Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the hibiscus flowers and remove from heat.
- Let it steep for 15-20 minutes, or until the tea has a deep red color.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Add sweetener to taste while the tea is still warm.
- Let it cool completely.
- Serve over ice and garnish with a lime or lemon wedge.
3. Cucumber Lime Refresher:
Cucumber’s high water content and mild flavor make it an excellent base for a refreshing summer drink. The addition of lime provides a zesty kick.
- Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice
- Optional: A pinch of sea salt
- Instructions:
- Combine cucumber, lime juice, cilantro (if using), and a cup of cold water in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Add the remaining water and blend briefly.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve.
- Serve over ice and add a pinch of sea salt if desired.
4. Ginger Lemon Iced Tea:
This invigorating iced tea is perfect for a midday pick-me-up. Ginger adds a spicy warmth, while lemon provides a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Ingredients:
- 4 cups brewed black or green tea, cooled
- 2-inch piece of ginger, peeled and grated
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- Honey or agave to taste
- Ice
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Instructions:
- Brew your tea and let it cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, combine grated ginger and lemon juice.
- Strain the ginger lemon mixture to remove pulp.
- Combine the cooled tea with the ginger lemon juice.
- Sweeten with honey or agave to taste.
- Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices.
5. Pineapple Coconut Agua Fresca:
This tropical delight is a creamy and refreshing treat. Pineapple brings sweetness, while coconut water adds electrolytes and a smooth texture.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
- 2 cups coconut water
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Ice
- Optional: Mint leaves for garnish.
- Instructions:
- Combine pineapple chunks, coconut water, and lime juice in a blender.
- Blend until smooth.
- Serve over ice and garnish with mint leaves.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment with different fruits, herbs, and spices to create your own signature summer drinks. Stay hydrated and enjoy the flavors of the season!
