We are reaching the end of January, and while the weather is still chilly for most of the world, the sun is going to be shining hot within a few months.
As temperatures rise, people look for ways to cool off and refresh themselves, and one of the best ways to do this is by enjoying a cool and thirst-quenching drink.
So buckle up, and let’s look at three different drinks that are perfect for beating the upcoming heat.
#1. Slushies!
Slushies are a popular summertime treat that is made by blending ice and a sweet liquid mixture.
The most common slushies are made with fruit juice or syrups, but the variations that can be made with slushy flavors are endless. They are a perfect drink to cool down on a hot summer day and can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Let’s look at a few popular variations. The first one is the classic strawberry slushie. This is made by blending fresh strawberries with ice and sweet syrup, resulting in a sweet and fruity drink that is perfect for summer barbecues and picnics.
The second variation is the blue raspberry slushie, which is made by blending fresh raspberries with blue food coloring and sweet syrup. This is perfect for those who prefer a sweeter and more tangy flavor, but it may not be for everyone.
Another variation of slushies is the adult slushy. A popular example is the Margarita slushie, a blend of tequila, lime juice, and sweet syrup with ice. If that’s not your jam, then consider the Pina colada slushie, a blend of coconut milk, pineapple juice, and rum with ice.
If you are someone who wants a healthier alternative, green slushies may be perfect for you. These healthy alternatives are made by blending fruits and vegetables such as spinach, kale, and avocado with ice and, of course, sweet syrup (you can’t fully do away with this ingredient).
Craving something unique? A matcha slushie might be right up your alley. Matcha is a type of green tea that is made by grinding the entire leaf into a powder. When added to slushies, it gives a unique and delicious flavor and a beautiful green color.
Matcha slushies also contain high levels of antioxidants, making them a very healthy alternative to regular slushies.
#2. Lemonade!
Lemonade is a classic summer drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. Made with fresh lemon juice, sugar, and water, lemonade is a sweet and tangy drink that is perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot summer day.
While the traditional recipe is simple, there are many variations of lemonade that can be made to suit different tastes and occasions.
One of the most popular variations of lemonade is strawberry lemonade. This version is made by blending fresh strawberries with the traditional lemonade recipe, resulting in a sweet and fruity drink that is perfect for summer barbecues and picnics.
You can also try raspberry lemonade, a combination of fresh raspberries with the traditional recipe. This is perfect for those who prefer a sweeter and more tangy flavor.
For those who want an added kick, alcoholic variations of lemonade exist, with the lemon drop martini being amazing. A blend of lemonade with vodka and a touch of triple sec makes for a thrilling drink.
A sparkling lemonade cocktail can also be made by adding a splash of sparkling wine or champagne to the traditional recipe.
For a more exotic twist, you can try adding some turmeric to your drink. Turmeric is a spice that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and adds a unique flavor and color to the lemonade.
#3. Iced Tea!
Iced tea is a refreshing and versatile drink that is perfect for summertime. Made by brewing tea leaves in hot water and then chilling the mixture, iced tea can be enjoyed in a variety of flavors and styles. While traditional iced tea is made with black tea leaves, there are many interesting variations that can be made with iced tea.
One delicious type is sweet tea. This southern favorite is made by adding a large amount of sugar to the brewed tea, resulting in a sweet and heady drink. Sweet tea can also be made with different types of tea leaves, such as green or white tea, for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
Herbal iced tea is also a popular hit in the summer months and is made by brewing fresh herbs such as mint, lemon balm, or basil with tea leaves. It’s a refreshing and healthy alternative to traditional iced tea and can be enjoyed on its own or with a splash of lemon juice.
Alcoholic variations also exist, such as the Long Island iced tea, which combines vodka, gin, tequila, and rum with iced tea and a splash of cola. Also consider the Arnold Palmer, which is a simple mix of iced tea and lemonade.
Conclusion
Staying hydrated during the summer is crucial to maintaining overall health and wellness. While drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated, you can’t go wrong with the many delicious and refreshing alternatives that we looked at today. Feel free to experiment and try your own variations to find something that suits you just right.