In the scorching heat of summer, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing beverage to quench your thirst and rejuvenate your senses. While sodas and sugary drinks might offer temporary relief, they often come with a host of health issues. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious alternatives that can keep you cool and hydrated during the hottest months of the year. Let’s explore eight easy-to-make healthy drinks that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide essential nutrients to keep you feeling your best.
1. Iced Matcha Latte
Start your day off right with a boost of energy from an Iced Matcha Latte. This vibrant green beverage combines the earthy flavors of matcha with the creamy texture of dairy-free milk. Simply mix a teaspoon of matcha with hot water to create a latte base, then blend it with a cup of your favorite dairy-free milk, such as coconut or oat milk. Add a touch of sweetness with an optional sweetener and serve over ice for a refreshing treat that will keep you cool and focused throughout the day.
2. Watermelon Cucumber Cooler
Stay hydrated with a Watermelon Cucumber Cooler that’s as refreshing as it is delicious. Watermelon and cucumber are both packed with water, making them the perfect ingredients for a hydrating summer drink. Simply blend fresh watermelon and cucumber until smooth, then strain the mixture to remove any pulp. Serve over ice for a crisp and revitalizing beverage that’s sure to quench your thirst on even the hottest days.
3. DIY Sparkling Lemonade
Beat the heat with a zesty DIY Sparkling Lemonade that’s bursting with flavor. Unlike store-bought lemonades that are often loaded with sugar, this homemade version is light and refreshing without sacrificing taste. Simply mix freshly squeezed lemon juice with sparkling water and a touch of your favorite sweetener, such as honey or agave syrup. Serve over ice for a fizzy and invigorating drink that’s perfect for sipping on lazy summer afternoons.
4. Lemon Iced Tea
Cool off with a classic Lemon Iced Tea that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Brew a cup of your favorite black tea and allow it to cool to room temperature. Add a splash of fresh lemon juice and a drizzle of natural sweetener, such as raw honey or maple syrup, to taste. Serve over ice for a cooling beverage that’s perfect for sipping on the porch or by the pool.
5. Summer Berry Spritzer
Indulge your taste buds with a Summer Berry Spritzer that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This vibrant drink combines the sweetness of summer berries with the effervescence of sparkling water for a refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Simply muddle fresh berries in a glass, then top with sparkling water and a squeeze of lime juice. Garnish with mint leaves for an extra burst of flavor and enjoy!
6. Sugar (& Alcohol) Free Sangria
Sip guilt-free with a Sugar (& Alcohol) Free Sangria that’s light, fruity, and full of flavor. Traditional sangria can be loaded with sugar and calories, but this healthier version skips the added sweeteners and alcohol for a lighter alternative that’s perfect for hot summer days. Simply mix together your favorite fruits, such as oranges, apples, and berries, with a splash of sparkling water and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve over ice for a refreshing beverage that’s sure to please.
7. Refreshing Summer Green Juice
Nourish your body from the inside out with a Refreshing Summer Green Juice that’s packed with vitamins and minerals. This revitalizing beverage combines the hydrating properties of cucumber and celery with the nutritional powerhouse of spinach for a drink that’s as good for you as it is delicious. Simply juice fresh cucumber, celery, and spinach, then pour over ice for a cool and invigorating treat that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
8. Pineapple Turmeric Tonic
Boost your immunity and metabolism with a Pineapple Turmeric Tonic that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. This vibrant yellow beverage combines the tropical flavors of pineapple with the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric for a drink that’s as good for your body as it is for your taste buds. Simply blend fresh pineapple with ground turmeric and a splash of coconut water until smooth, then pour over ice for a refreshing summer drink that’s sure to become a new favorite.