Summer has finally arrived, and with it comes the perfect excuse to refresh our taste buds with cool, fruity drinks. There’s nothing like a glass of something sweet and satisfying on a hot day to quench your thirst and brighten your mood. In this article, we’ll share 20 refreshing fruit drink recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic combinations like strawberry banana smoothie to more unique twists like mango pineapple blast, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a healthy pick-me-up, these drinks are the perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy the sunshine.
Stay tuned for our top 20 recipes, featuring an array of fruits, herbs, and spices that will tantalize your taste buds!
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie is a perfect blend of sweet strawberries and creamy bananas, making it a great way to start your day or as a healthy snack any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the bananas, strawberries, and yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until crushed for a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and serve.
Mango Pineapple Blast
Get ready to refresh your taste buds with this sweet and tangy tropical treat!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mango, pineapple, coconut cream, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep + blending)
Enjoy your Mango Pineapple Blast!
Blueberry Lemonade
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy blueberry lemonade recipe! This fruity twist on classic lemonade is perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or backyard barbecues.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Mash the blueberries with a fork or potato masher to release their natural sweetness and flavor. Add them to the pitcher and stir gently.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a refreshing summer drink.
Watermelon Mint Cooler
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on a classic summer drink! This Watermelon Mint Cooler is perfect for hot days, BBQs, or just relaxing by the pool.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree watermelon until smooth.
2. Add mint leaves and lime juice; blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture into a large pitcher to remove any solids.
4. Add sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the cooler over the ice.
6. Stir gently and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Peach Raspberry Iced Tea
Quench your thirst with this sweet and tangy iced tea infused with the flavors of peaches and raspberries. Perfect for hot summer days or as a refreshing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (brewing strength)
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bags and add the sliced peaches. Let it infuse for another 10 minutes, allowing the peach flavor to meld with the tea.
3. Strain the tea mixture into a large pitcher or jug. Discard the peaches.
4. Add the fresh raspberries to the tea and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
5. Just before serving, stir in the honey until dissolved.
6. Serve chilled over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes (including steeping time)
Kiwi Lime Slush
Beat the heat with this refreshing slush recipe that combines the sweetness of kiwi with the tanginess of lime. Perfect for a hot summer day or a quick pick-me-up anytime!
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine kiwi, lime juice, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add water to the blender and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour mixture into glasses filled with ice (if desired).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pomegranate Orange Sparkler
A refreshing twist on the classic spritzer, this Pomegranate Orange Sparkler is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grenadine syrup
– Sliced orange, for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pomegranate juice and orange juice.
2. Add the grenadine syrup and stir to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with sliced orange and fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Apple Cinnamon Infusion
Warm up with a soothing and flavorful apple cinnamon infusion that’s perfect for any time of the day. This easy-to-make drink combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a comforting blend.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 apples (any variety), sliced
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 4 inches long)
– 1 quart (960 ml) water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple slices and cinnamon stick.
2. Pour in the water and bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
4. Strain the mixture into a teapot or pitcher using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
5. Discard the solids (apples and cinnamon stick) or reserve them as a garnish.
6. Serve hot, sweetened with honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Blackberry Basil Lemonade
This unique lemonade recipe combines the sweetness of blackberries with the brightness of basil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh blackberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the blackberries and sugar until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice and water. Stir in the blackberry puree and chopped basil leaves.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Blackberry Basil Lemonade over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refreshing drink that requires no cooking.
Coconut Pineapple Smoothie
Escape to a tropical paradise with this creamy and refreshing smoothie that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
3. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is fully incorporated.
5. Pour into glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cherry Vanilla Milkshake
Blend together the essence of cherry sweetness and creamy vanilla goodness with this simple recipe. Perfect as a treat or dessert, this milkshake is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vanilla ice cream
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the ice cream, cherries, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the milk and vanilla extract to the blender. Blend until well combined and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Grapefruit Honey Spritzer
Revive with a refreshing twist on the classic spritzer, combining tart grapefruit and sweet honey for a delightful drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tbsp honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– Slice of grapefruit, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in the grapefruit juice and honey syrup.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a slice of grapefruit.
Cooking Time: None! Serve immediately and enjoy.
Passionfruit Green Tea
Reinvigorate with a refreshing and fruity twist on traditional green tea! This sweet and tangy passionfruit-infused brew is perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon of loose-leaf green tea
– 1 cup of boiling water
– 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed passionfruit juice (or 1 tablespoon of passionfruit syrup)
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and add the green tea leaves.
2. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired strength.
3. Strain the tea into a large glass filled with ice.
4. Add the passionfruit juice or syrup and stir well.
5. Adjust sweetness by adding honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: None
Mixed Berry Yogurt Smoothie
Start your day with a refreshing and healthy Mixed Berry Yogurt Smoothie! This simple recipe combines the sweetness of mixed berries with the creaminess of yogurt, making it a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond milk)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the mixed berries, Greek yogurt, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the milk and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. If desired, add ice cubes and blend until frosty.
Cooking Time:
– 30 seconds to 1 minute blending time
– No cooking required!
Lemon Ginger Detox Drink
Kickstart your day with this refreshing and revitalizing drink, packed with the purifying powers of lemon and ginger to help flush out toxins and boost your immune system.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water and lemon juice.
2. Add the sliced ginger to the mixture and let it infuse for at least 10-15 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Strain the liquid into a separate container, discarding the ginger slices.
4. If desired, add honey to sweeten the drink to taste.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Lemon Ginger Detox Drink over the ice.
6. Stir well and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (infusion time)
Avocado Banana Smoothie
Kickstart your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie that combines the creaminess of avocados and bananas. This unique blend is perfect for a quick breakfast or post-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 avocado, peeled and pitted
– 1 cup vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, avocado, yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency.
4. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired texture.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Cucumber Melon Refresher
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer drink that combines the sweetness of melon with the coolness of cucumber. This light and revitalizing beverage is perfect for hot days or outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups watermelon chunks
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon chunks, cucumber slices, lime juice, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in minutes.
Guava Limeade
Experience the sweet and tangy flavors of the Caribbean with this refreshing guava limeade recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup guava puree (or 2-3 guava fruits, peeled and chopped)
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine water and lime juice.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the guava puree and stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the Guava Limeade over ice cubes and garnish with a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chilling)
Pear Cardamom Elixir
This sweet and spicy elixir combines the warmth of cardamom with the tender flavor of pears, creating a delightful and comforting beverage perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou), peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped pears, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pears are tender.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the ground cardamom. Let it steep for at least 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher or individual cups. Discard the solids.
5. Add the cinnamon stick (if using) to the elixir and let it infuse for an additional 2-3 hours in the refrigerator.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with a slice of pear and a sprig of fresh mint if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes + steeping time
Tropical Papaya Punch
This fruity and refreshing punch is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you want to add a touch of tropical flair to your party. With the sweetness of papaya, the tanginess of lime, and the spice of ginger, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed fruit juice (pineapple, orange, and grapefruit)
– 1 cup papaya puree
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup sparkling water
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or pineapple wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the mixed fruit juice, papaya puree, and lime juice.
2. Add the sliced ginger to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add the sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently.
5. Serve the Tropical Papaya Punch over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves or pineapple wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Summary
Indulge in the sweetness of summer with these refreshing fruit drink recipes. From classic combinations like Strawberry Banana Smoothie and Blueberry Lemonade to unique blends like Mango Pineapple Blast and Kiwi Lime Slush, there’s something for everyone. Treat yourself to a Peach Raspberry Iced Tea or a Coconut Pineapple Smoothie, or try something new with Pomegranate Orange Sparkler or Apple Cinnamon Infusion. With 20 recipes in total, you’ll be sipping your way through the warm weather in no time.
