Four Cool and Refreshing Summer Beverage Ideas

Summer has arrived, and so has the heat! That means it’s time for some cool, refreshing beverages, and I don’t mean sugary sodas or blue sports drinks either.

I like to throw fruit and herbs into some water and place it outside in the sun for a few hours to make interesting flavored water. You can also leave it on the counter to steep or put it directly in the fridge.

Enjoy these healthful beverages that will satisfy your thirst without sugar, artificial sweeteners, food coloring, or other chemical additives!

ORANGE BASIL WATER

8 cups filtered water
2 oranges, sliced (peel and all)
1 cup fresh basil, coarsely chopped

CUCUMBER GINGER WATER

8 cups filtered water
1 large peeled and chopped cucumber
1/2 cup chopped ginger
1/2 cup rosemary, coarsely chopped

HONEYDEW MINT WATER

8 cups Filtered water
1/2 honeydew, cut in thin slices with or without peel
1/2 cup fresh mint, coarsely chopped

CANTALOUPE TARRAGON WATER

6 cups water
1/2 of a cantaloupe, cut in thin slices with or without peel
1/2 cup fresh tarragon, coarsely chopped

Instructions for all:

  1. Fill container with water.
  2. Slice and chop the fruit and herbs and add.
  3. Seal with a lid and let stand in the in the sun or refrigerator at least 2 hours before serving. Taste to determine if it needs more time.
  4. Strain and serve cold, with or without ice. Add a fresh slice of fruit for garnish if desired.