The classic horchata and lemon slushie meet some new summer favs: here’s how to prepare tasty and refreshing drinks to beat the heat.

Soaring temps, outdoor living and changes in eating habits call for a lighter, more refreshing approach to nutrition. It’s time to lighten up your plate and your glass!

While water remains number one when it comes to hydration, there are delicious alternatives for staying cool and healthy: many feature water-rich fruits like melon and watermelon, which are also packed with vitamins and minerals.

5 refreshers to beat the heat    

Try these five easy-to-make drinks at home and quench your thirst while beating the heat. Take note!  

Horchata

This is a classic summer drink. To make it, soak 250 g Valencia tigernuts in 1 litre water for 8 hours in the fridge. Blend, strain and beat by hand. Strain the paste again and add sweetener to the liquid you extract. Cool the horchata in the fridge and drink cold.

Watermelon, orange and lemon juice

Squeeze the juice from three oranges and two lemons. Cut up three slices of watermelon and blend with ice and a pinch of brown sugar. Add the lemon and orange juice and garnish with star fruit. Serve cold.  

Lemon slushie

Squeeze the juice from three lemons and zest a fourth one. Combine the lemon juice with zest, sugar and ice. Blend well. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze. Once frozen, serve in a tall, thin glass and add a sprig of mint.

Red berry lemonade

Blend strawberries, raspberries and pitted cherries. Squeeze the juice from four lemons to a litre of cold water and then mix in the berry smoothie. Serve over ice and garnish with a sprig of mint.

Spiced iced tea

Bring water, black tea, cinnamon, vanilla, honey, grated ginger and black pepper to a boil. When it starts to boil, lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Strain the liquid and pour over crushed ice. Optional: Add a splash of oat or almond milk.

These refreshing options are a healthier alternatives to sodas and packaged juices. They complement a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains. And remember: staying active is important, even in summer.   

Sources:

10 bebidas refrescantes para el verano que puedes hacer en casa. Expansión. August 2023.

10 bebidas sanas y sin azúcar que puedes tomar en verano para mantenerte hidratada. Yo Dona. July 2023.

This post is also available in: Portuguese (Portugal)