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Summer Drink Recipes — Summer in a Glass - Bright, Refreshing, and Easy

Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Fresh strawberries or raspberries (1 cup, hulled if using strawberries)
  • Lemon (1 large, juiced)
  • Lime (1 large, juiced)
  • Honey or agave (1–2 tablespoons, to taste)
  • Cold sparkling water (2 cups)
  • Fresh mint leaves (a small handful)
  • Crushed ice (enough to fill glasses)
  • Pinch of salt (optional, boosts flavor)
  • Optional add-ins: cucumber slices, sliced peaches, a splash of coconut water, or a tiny bit of vanilla extract
  • Garnish: extra berries, citrus slices, or a mint sprig

Method
 

  1. Mash the berries. In a bowl or pitcher, lightly muddle the strawberries or raspberries with the honey (or agave) and a pinch of salt. You want a chunky puree—don’t overdo it.
  2. Add citrus. Stir in the fresh lemon and lime juice. Taste. If it’s too tart, add a bit more honey. If it’s too sweet, squeeze in more lemon.
  3. Add mint. Clap the mint leaves between your hands to release the oils, then drop them into the mixture and stir gently.
  4. Prep the glasses. Fill your glasses to the top with crushed ice. If you like, rub a lemon wedge around the rim first for a citrusy aroma.
  5. Top with bubbles. Divide the berry-citrus base among the glasses (about 1/3 full), then top with cold sparkling water. Stir once, softly, so you keep the fizz.
  6. Garnish and serve. Add a few extra berries, a citrus slice, and a mint sprig. Serve right away while it’s icy and effervescent.
  7. Pitcher method. For a crowd, triple the recipe. Build the base in a large pitcher. Keep it chilled, then add sparkling water just before serving.