Cooling Concoctions For Your Hot Summer Days

In the heat of the summer, we don’t want to be far from refreshing beverages to beat the heat. Pure water is, of course, the best choice to protect against dehydration, and adding a squeeze of fresh lemon helps you pack even more of a beneficial punch.

But there are occasions when you may want a little something extra, or you’re looking for the perfect summer beverage to serve at your weekend gathering. There are some delightfully refreshing options to choose from. Whether you choose the adult version or leave them kid-friendly, these drink options are sure to please and are easy to make.

Here are my favorite soothing summer beverages that you can enjoy with or without alcohol for more summer sunshine in your glass with no guilt:

Cheery Cherry
1 cup organic cherry juice
¾ cup organic orange juice
¼ cup cold filtered water
Fresh orange slices
Alcohol option: 2 ounces of vodka

Combine all ingredients in a pitcher. Fill glasses with ice and pour the drink mixture in. Garnish with the orange slices.

Passionate Pineapple Punch
1 cup organic passion fruit juice
1 cup organic pineapple juice
¼ cup fresh-squeezed lime juice
¼ cup coconut water
Lime seltzer to taste
Lime wheels for garnish
Alcohol option: 3 ounces of rum (note: you can use a flavored rum like coconut, mango, or anything else you desire)

Mix everything except the seltzer together in a pitcher. Fill your glasses with ice and pour the contents of the pitcher in. Top off each glass with the seltzer. Add a lime wheel garnish.

Citrus Sangria
And finally, we’ll end with one just for the adults. Sangria is a true summer delight, especially this citrus version!

1 bottle (750 mL) chilled medium-dry red wine (like a Malbec or Rioja)
2 cups chilled lime seltzer
1 cup fresh orange juice
2 limes, sliced
2 lemons, sliced
2 oranges, sliced

The hardest part about this drink recipe is waiting! You combine everything into one large pitcher, cover it and chill it for a few hours before serving.

 

Don’t forget to consume a glass of water frequently throughout the day to avoid dehydration in the summer heat. I recommend a minimum of 60 ounces – more if your regular activities cause you to sweat often. Eating a lot of water-filled foods – watermelon, celery, cucumbers, etc. – can also help.

What are your favorite summer pastimes? Would adding one of these cool concoctions increase your enjoyment?