As the weather starts to heat up, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing glass of your favorite drink to quench your thirst. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to decide what to make. That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 simple and delicious drink recipes perfect for beginners. From classic lemonade to fruity infused waters and creamy smoothies, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
In the following pages, you’ll find a variety of drinks that are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a healthy pick-me-up, these recipes have got you covered.
Sparkling Lemonade with Fresh Mint
Beat the heat with this revitalizing twist on classic lemonade, infused with the cooling essence of fresh mint and a splash of sparkling water. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up anytime.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 liter sparkling water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add in water and stir well to combine.
3. Add chopped fresh mint leaves and stir gently to infuse the flavor.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, stir in sparkling water and adjust sweetness to taste.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply serve and enjoy.
Iced Honey Green Tea
This sweet and soothing tea is perfect for hot summer days. With a hint of honey, it’s a delightful twist on traditional green tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed green tea (cooled)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large glass, combine the cooled green tea and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add the sliced lemon to the tea and stir gently.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
4. Stir well to combine and chill the tea.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just assemble and serve!)
Strawberry Basil Infused Water
Elevate your hydration game with this sweet and savory infused water recipe. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a refreshing pick-me-up, strawberry basil infused water is a unique and delicious way to stay hydrated.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 liter cold water
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine sliced strawberries and fresh basil leaves.
2. Add the cold water to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the infused water into glasses filled with ice before serving.
Cooking Time: None!
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of strawberries and basil to your taste preferences.
– You can also add a few sprigs of mint leaves for an added twist.
– This recipe is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or outdoor gatherings.
Enjoy your refreshing strawberry basil infused water!
Cucumber Lime Cooler
Beat the heat with this light and revitalizing drink that combines the coolness of cucumber and the zesty zing of lime. This recipe is perfect for hot summer days or as a unique addition to your brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water and sliced cucumber. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the cucumber flavor to meld.
2. Remove the pitcher from the fridge and add the freshly squeezed lime juice and honey. Stir until the honey is fully dissolved.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cucumber Lime Cooler mixture over the ice.
4. Stir gently and garnish with fresh mint leaves or a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including infusion time)
Vanilla Almond Milk Smoothie
Revive with a refreshing and creamy Vanilla Almond Milk Smoothie, perfect for hot summer days or as a quick breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond milk
– 1/2 cup frozen vanilla yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup ice cubes
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine almond milk, frozen vanilla yogurt, and honey.
2. Add vanilla extract and blend until smooth.
3. Add ice cubes and blend until crushed and creamy.
4. If desired, sprinkle with sliced almonds for added crunch.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Vanilla Almond Milk Smoothie!
Pineapple Coconut Mocktail
This refreshing mocktail combines the sweetness of pineapple with the creamy richness of coconut, perfect for a warm summer evening or any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 lime, cut into wedges (optional)
• Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple juice and coconut milk.
2. Stir in honey until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve mocktail over ice in tall glasses.
5. Garnish with lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Berry Blast Sparkling Water
Elevate your hydration game with this refreshing sparkling water infused with the sweetness of berries! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for hot summer days or as a pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
– 1 liter sparkling water
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the mixed berries and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. Place the berries in a large pitcher or jug.
3. Pour the sparkling water over the berries.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. If desired, add the honey and stir until dissolved.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of berries to your taste.
– Use any combination of berry types you prefer.
– Add a few slices of lemon or lime for extra flavor, if desired.
Cold Brew Coffee with Cinnamon
Perfect for hot summer days or anytime you want a refreshing pick-me-up, this cold brew coffee recipe infuses the rich flavors of cinnamon into your morning cup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
– 4 cups cold water
– 1 cinnamon stick (about 2-3 inches long)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Combine coffee grounds and cold water in a large glass or plastic container with a lid.
2. Stir the mixture well to ensure all coffee particles are saturated.
3. Add the cinnamon stick to the mixture, making sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
4. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight (16-18 hours).
5. Strain the cold brew into another container using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth. Discard the coffee grounds and cinnamon stick.
6. Serve over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12 hours (or overnight)
Enjoy your delicious Cold Brew Coffee with Cinnamon!
Peach Iced Tea with Ginger
Perfect for warm weather, this refreshing tea combines the sweetness of peaches with the spicy kick of ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup strong brewed peach tea (black tea or herbal blend)
– 1/2 cup fresh ginger juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 quart water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine brewed peach tea and ginger juice.
2. Add honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Add quart of water to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with sliced peaches or mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold-brewed tea!
Orange Carrot Detox Juice
This juice recipe combines the natural sweetness of oranges and carrots with the detoxifying properties of ginger to create a refreshing and rejuvenating drink. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon boost, this juice is designed to support your body’s natural cleansing processes.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium oranges
– 4-6 baby carrots
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a juicer or blender and juice until smooth.
2. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or fibers.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (juicing and straining)
Watermelon Mint Slushie
Beat the heat with this refreshing slushie recipe that combines sweet watermelon and cooling mint.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 cup ice
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, mint leaves, and sugar.
2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and the mint is well chopped.
3. Add ice to the blender and blend until crushed and well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or mintiness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and top with a dollop of Greek yogurt, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Homemade Chocolate Milk
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this simple recipe for homemade chocolate milk. Made with just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious and creamy treat that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chocolate syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
2. Add in the milk and whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Add the salt and whisk until dissolved.
4. If desired, add the chocolate syrup and whisk until fully incorporated.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 2 cups (serves 1-2)
Turmeric Golden Milk Latte
Start your day with a warm and comforting cup of Turmeric Golden Milk Latte, infused with the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or coconut)
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, warm the non-dairy milk over low heat.
2. Add the turmeric and ginger powders to the milk and whisk until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the honey until dissolved.
4. Add the vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
5. Sprinkle with black pepper (optional) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Spiced Water
As the weather cools down, a soothing and comforting drink is just what you need to relax and unwind. This Apple Cinnamon Spiced Water recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a cozy evening by the fireplace or a pick-me-up on a chilly morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 liter water
– 2-3 slices fresh apple (any variety)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon honey (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the sliced apples and reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
4. Add the ground cinnamon and stir well to combine.
5. If desired, add honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
6. Strain the mixture into a teapot or individual cups.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional apple slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Enjoy your comforting Apple Cinnamon Spiced Water!
Blueberry Lavender Lemonade
This unique lemonade recipe combines the sweetness of blueberries with the subtle flavor of lavender, creating a refreshing and flavorful drink perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the blueberries and sugar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the berries to infuse the mixture with their flavor and color.
2. Strain the blueberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
3. Add the lemon juice and stir until combined.
4. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil, then remove from heat. Add the lavender buds and let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the lavender-infused water into the lemonade mixture. Stir well to combine.
6. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: None
Grapefruit Rosemary Spritzer
This citrusy and herbaceous spritzer is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year. The combination of grapefruit’s tartness, rosemary’s earthiness, and sparkling water creates a refreshing and revitalizing drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, chopped
– 1 bottle of sparkling water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine grapefruit juice and simple syrup. Stir to dissolve the sugar.
2. Add chopped rosemary leaves to the pitcher and stir gently.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, pour in the sparkling water.
5. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with additional rosemary sprigs, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This drink is ready when you are.
Cherry Limeade Soda
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing twist on traditional limeade! This Cherry Limeade Soda recipe combines the sweetness of cherries with the tanginess of lime, all in a fizzy and fun soda.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry juice (such as cherry puree or cherry syrup)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional, but recommended for a more authentic soda taste)
– Soda maker or bottle with carbonation tablets/cartridges
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 and citric acid (if using) to the pitcher.
4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Use your soda maker or bottle with carbonation tablets/cartridges to carbonate the mixture to your desired level of fizziness.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply mix, stir, and carbonate the ingredients according to the instructions above.
Matcha Coconut Smoothie
This smoothie combines the invigorating flavor of matcha green tea with the creamy richness of coconut, making for a delicious and nutritious treat. Perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/4 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine matcha powder, banana, pineapple, and coconut milk.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy no-cook recipe.
Enjoy your refreshing Matcha Coconut Smoothie!
Raspberry Peach Iced Tea
This refreshing summer drink combines the sweetness of peaches with the tartness of raspberries, perfect for hot days or relaxing gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 peach slices (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon loose-leaf tea leaves (black or green tea works well)
– Honey or sugar to taste
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the quart of water to a boil.
2. Add the peach slices and remove from heat. Let it steep for 10 minutes to allow the peaches to infuse their flavor into the water.
3. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large pitcher. Discard the peach slices.
4. Add the fresh raspberries to the tea and let it steep for an additional 5-7 minutes, mashing them gently with a spoon as they release their flavor.
5. Strain the tea again to remove the raspberry seeds and solids.
6. Add honey or sugar to taste, then chill the tea in the refrigerator before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Banana Protein Shake
This refreshing blend combines creamy avocado, ripe banana, and protein-rich whey to create a deliciously healthy post-workout treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1 medium banana
– 1/2 scoop whey protein powder
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. Add the following ingredients to a blender: avocado, banana, whey protein powder.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as necessary.
3. Add the almond milk and honey (if using) and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
5. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker shake, then blend until ice is crushed and desired texture is reached.
Cooking Time: None! Simply blend and enjoy.
Summary
Get ready to quench your thirst with these 20 refreshing and easy-to-make drink recipes perfect for beginners! From classic lemonade to innovative infused waters, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor combinations like strawberry basil water, cucumber lime cooler, and vanilla almond milk smoothie. Plus, get the basics down with simple sparkling drinks and cold brew coffee. Whether you’re looking for a healthy boost or a sweet treat, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
