Foodie Friday: Summer Drinks

Sparkling Peach Cucumber Lemonade
Via Life is But a Dish

Cool drinks on the porch in the heat of summer are so refreshing.  It's nice to have something special to sip on for your guests or just for yourself while you are relaxing on the patio.  We've found some delicious thirst quenching beverages for you to try out this summer.  Enjoy!




Sparkling Peach Cucumber Lemonade
Yields 1 pitcher

For the Simple Syrup:
1 cup water
3/4 cup sugar
2-3 mint leaves

For the Lemonade:
2 peaches, sliced,
1-2 tablespoons water
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1 cucumber, sliced
3/4 cup sparkling water
Mint

Instructions
Begin by making the simple syrup. In a small pot add the water, sugar, and mint leaves. Bring to a boil, then cook for a couple minutes until sugar dissolves, stirring often. Remove from heat and set aside to let cool.

In a blender, add almost all the peaches (leave a handful out for garnish) and water and blend until smooth. Strain peach puree to remove any large chunks.

In a pitcher, add the simple syrup, lemon juice, and peach puree. Stir to combine. Add sliced peaches, cucumber and 5-6 mint leaves. Store in fridge until ready to serve. Just before serving add the sparkling water and serve over ice!

Strawberry, Lime, Cucumber and Mint Infused Water
Via Wholefully

Strawberry, Lime, Cucumber and Mint Infused Water 
Cook time: 10 mins
Total time: 10 mins
Author: Cassie Johnston

Ingredients:
1 cup sliced strawberries
1 cup sliced cucumbers
2 limes, sliced
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
Ice cubes
Water

Instructions:
In a half-gallon jar, or a 2 quart pitcher, layer the strawberries, cucumbers, lime slices, and mint leaves with the ice cubes. Fill jar or pitcher with water. Let chill for 10 minutes, and then enjoy!

Notes:
I can get 2-4 fill-ups out of one batch of flavorings, but you might want to change out your flavorings sooner for stronger flavor.
Feel free to use sparkling water instead of still water.

The longer the water sits, the stronger the flavor. It's mild at first, but after a few hours (or overnight) it's quite strong.


Watermelon Agua Fresca
Via Smart Little Cookie


Watermelon Agua Fresca
Prep Time: 5 mins
Total Time: 5 mins
Servings: 2 -4 glasses
Author: Vanessa

Ingredients:
3 cups watermelon , cubed
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
1/4 cup simple syrup
2 cups of water
ice for serving
3-4 mint leaves , have extra for garnish

Instructions:
In a blender, mix the watermelon, lime juice, simple syrup and water until well combined. Stir in 3-4 mint leaves and refrigerate overnight for added freshness, if desired.

Serve with a lot of ice and garnish with mint leaves.



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