Beat the Heat with These Refreshing Summer Drink Recipes!
As the temperatures soar and the sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like a cool and refreshing drink to quench your thirst. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard BBQ, having a few summer drinks up your sleeve can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of our favorite refreshing summer drink recipes that are sure to hit the spot on even the hottest of days.
From fruity and bubbly to cool and creamy, these drinks cover a range of flavors and textures that are sure to please even the pickiest of palates. So grab your blender, your juicer, or your favorite glassware, and get ready to beat the heat with these amazing summer drink recipes!
Strawberry Lemonade Slush
Beat the heat with this refreshing slush made with sweet strawberries and tangy lemonade! This easy-to-make drink is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a cool treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the water to the blender and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as desired.
4. Pour the slush into glasses filled with ice cubes (if desired).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Watermelon Mint Cooler
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing drink, perfect for warm summer days. This Watermelon Mint Cooler is a refreshing twist on traditional summer drinks.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed watermelon (seedless)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups cold water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, mint leaves, and cold water.
2. Blend until smooth and the mixture is well combined.
3. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or jug to remove any remaining pulp or fibers.
4. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve cold, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired. You can also add ice cubes if you prefer it chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe!
Pineapple Coconut Smoothie
This refreshing Pineapple Coconut Smoothie is the perfect treat to beat the heat and transport you to a tropical paradise. With the sweetness of pineapple, creaminess of coconut, and hint of citrus, this smoothie is sure to become your new favorite drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup coconut water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
3. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This smoothie is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your tropical getaway in a glass!
Blueberry Basil Iced Tea
This refreshing tea combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of basil, perfect for hot summer days. With only a few ingredients and no cooking required, this tea is quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water and blueberries. Let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Just before serving, add the fresh basil leaves to the pitcher and muddle them gently with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding honey if desired.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Blueberry Basil Iced Tea over the ice.
5. Stir well and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Let it steep in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Mango Lassi
Beat the heat with this refreshing Indian drink made with pureed mango and yogurt. A perfect thirst quencher for any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk (whole or low-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mango, yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add honey if you prefer it sweet, and blend again.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy the cooling effects of this delightful Mango Lassi!
Cucumber Lime Spritzer
Beat the heat with this refreshing Cucumber Lime Spritzer, perfect for warm days and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves or lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the cucumber slices and lime juice. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate pitcher or individual glasses. Discard the solids.
3. Add the sparkling water and honey to the pitcher. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cucumber Lime Spritzer over the ice. Stir gently.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (infusion time) + serving
Peach Iced Tea
This sweet and tangy tea recipe combines the flavors of ripe peaches, black tea, and citrus for a perfect summer drink. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this refreshing beverage in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 4 peach slices (fresh or canned)
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf black tea
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the peach slices and tea leaves. Let it steep for 5 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher or jug.
4. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
5. Squeeze in the lemon juice.
6. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
7. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steeping time)
Raspberry Mojito Mocktail
This refreshing Raspberry Mojito Mocktail is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening with friends. The combination of sweet raspberries, tangy lime juice, and crisp mint leaves creates a delightful twist on the classic mojito.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup club soda
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Handful of ice
– Sprigs of fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Muddle the raspberries in a large pitcher with a spoon or muddler until they’re well-crushed.
2. Add the lime juice and simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the club soda to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Raspberry Mojito Mocktail over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a sprig of fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mocktail!
Kiwi Strawberry Sparkler
Add a refreshing twist to your summer gatherings with this sweet and tangy Kiwi Strawberry Sparkler. This fruity cocktail is perfect for hot days or outdoor celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water dissolved)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine strawberries and kiwi slices.
2. Add simple syrup and lime juice to the pitcher; stir until the fruit is well coated.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Kiwi Strawberry Sparkler over the ice.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! This refreshing cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Lavender Lemonade
This refreshing drink combines the brightness of lemonade with the calming essence of lavender, creating a unique and delightful beverage perfect for warm weather or anytime you need to unwind.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add in the water and stir well to combine.
3. Add the dried lavender buds to the mixture and let it steep for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the lavender buds from the lemonade before serving.
5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-weather beverage.
Passion Fruit Green Tea
Revitalize your senses with this refreshing twist on traditional green tea. This recipe combines the subtle bitterness of green tea with the sweet and tangy flavor of passion fruit puree.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon loose-leaf green tea leaves
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 tablespoons passion fruit puree (see note)
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the green tea leaves and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired strength of tea.
3. Strain the tea into a large glass filled with ice.
4. Pour in the passion fruit puree and stir well to combine.
5. If desired, add honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an infused tea recipe.
Blackberry Ginger Fizz
Refresh your summer with this refreshing Blackberry Ginger Fizz! This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for hot days, picnics, or just a relaxing evening with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups blackberries
– 1 cup ginger ale
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves and slices of lime for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the blackberries until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the blackberry puree, ginger ale, lime juice, and honey. Stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Serve the Blackberry Ginger Fizz over ice cubes. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and slices of lime, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (just chill and serve!)
Enjoy your refreshing Blackberry Ginger Fizz!
Pomegranate Mint Lemonade
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade! The sweetness of pomegranate and the coolness of mint come together to create a unique and invigorating drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and pomegranate juice.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add chopped mint leaves and muddle gently with a spoon to release oils and flavors.
4. Add water and stir well.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Orange Creamsicle Smoothie
Orange Creamsicle Smoothie Recipe
Get ready to transport yourself back to summer days with the nostalgic flavors of Orange Creamsicles! This creamy and dreamy smoothie is a perfect blend of citrus, vanilla, and sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen orange juice concentrate
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen orange juice concentrate, Greek yogurt, and vanilla ice cream.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until fully incorporated.
4. Pour in the milk and blend until well combined.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
6. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Enjoy your Orange Creamsicle Smoothie!
Cherry Limeade
A refreshing twist on classic limeade, this Cherry Limeade recipe combines the sweetness of cherries with the tanginess of limes.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry juice (such as grenadine or cherry syrup)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Fresh lime wedges and cherry halves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the cherry juice and lime juice until well combined.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir until well mixed.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Cherry Limeade over ice in glasses and garnish with a lime wedge and cherry half.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a simple mix-and-chill affair, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up.
Grapefruit Rosemary Spritzer
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Grapefruit Rosemary Spritzer, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. This fizzy and flavorful drink combines the tartness of grapefruit with the herbal notes of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grapefruit juice
– 1 cup Prosecco or sparkling wine
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine grapefruit juice and Prosecco.
2. Add fresh rosemary leaves to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, stir in honey (if using) to balance out the flavors.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Grapefruit Rosemary Spritzer over the ice.
5. Garnish each glass with a fresh rosemary sprig.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Chai Iced Coffee
Elevate your coffee game with this unique blend of vanilla and chai spices, perfect for warm weather. This refreshing drink is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup milk or creamer (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Ice cubes
– Whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the coffee according to your preferred method.
2. In a large glass, combine the brewed coffee, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. Stir until well combined.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
4. Stir again to chill the mixture.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level to your liking.
6. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (as this is an iced coffee recipe)
Lychee Rose Cooler
Refresh your senses with this exotic and refreshing cooler, featuring the sweet flavors of lychees and rose.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh lychees, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups rose-flavored sparkling water
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the chopped lychees and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the rose-flavored sparkling water, Greek yogurt, and honey to the blender. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Lychee Rose Cooler over the ice.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Aloe Vera Honey Drink
Revitalize your senses with this soothing and sweet drink, perfect for a warm day or as a calming pick-me-up anytime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly extracted Aloe Vera juice (or store-bought pure Aloe Vera juice)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass, combine the water and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add the Aloe Vera juice to the mixture and stir well.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or Aloe Vera flavor as needed.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes if you prefer your drink chilled.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required – just mix and serve!
Spiced Hibiscus Iced Tea
Refresh your senses with this flavorful and aromatic Spiced Hibiscus Iced Tea recipe, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up. This tea combines the natural sweetness of hibiscus with the warmth of spices to create a unique and delicious beverage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
– 1 cinnamon stick (4-5 inches long)
– 6 cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the water and dried hibiscus flowers. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and ground ginger. Let steep for 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or individual glasses. Discard the solids.
4. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Sweeten with honey or sugar to taste, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat with these refreshing summer drink recipes! From fruity slushies to revitalizing spritzers, we’ve got you covered. Try our Strawberry Lemonade Slush, Watermelon Mint Cooler, or Pineapple Coconut Smoothie for a sweet treat. Or, go green with Blueberry Basil Iced Tea or Passion Fruit Green Tea. For a twist on traditional tea, try Blackberry Ginger Fizz or Pomegranate Mint Lemonade. Whatever your taste, we’ve got the perfect drink to quench your thirst and keep you cool all summer long.