12 Easy Drink Recipes

You're about to discover a collection of refreshing drinks that'll transform your beverage game. These 12 easy recipes range from classic homemade lemonade to exotic coconut lime refreshers, each requiring minimal ingredients and prep time. Whether you're seeking a cooling watermelon mint cooler for hot days or a comforting honey iced green tea for quiet afternoons, there's a perfect drink waiting to be crafted in your kitchen. Let's start with the crowd-pleasing basics.

Classic Homemade Lemonade

Making lemonade from scratch allows you to control the sweetness level and ensure the freshest ingredients are used. This recipe creates a perfectly balanced classic lemonade that can be easily adjusted to suit individual taste preferences.

Ingredients:

• 6 large lemons
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 cups cold water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

Start by making a simple syrup by combining 1 cup of sugar with 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Meanwhile, juice the lemons to yield approximately 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, being careful to strain out any seeds. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, fresh lemon juice, and remaining 5 cups of cold water.

Stir the mixture thoroughly until well combined. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more water or lemon juice as needed. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh lemon slices if desired.

For best results, use room temperature lemons and roll them firmly on the counter before juicing to release more juice. The lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, though the fresh taste is best within the first 48 hours. If the lemonade becomes too concentrated over time, simply add more cold water to dilute it to your desired strength.

Watermelon Mint Cooler

The Watermelon Mint Cooler is a refreshing summer beverage that combines the sweet, juicy flavors of watermelon with the crisp, cooling sensation of fresh mint. This vibrant drink is perfect for hot afternoons, pool parties, or any occasion where a light, non-alcoholic refreshment is desired.

This recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for entertaining guests. The natural sweetness of ripe watermelon means you can adjust or eliminate added sugar based on personal preference and the fruit's natural sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 8 cups cubed watermelon
• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons honey or agave (optional)
• 2 cups cold water
• Ice cubes
• Mint sprigs for garnish
• Lime slices for garnish

Remove seeds from the watermelon cubes if present. Place the watermelon, mint leaves, lime juice, and sweetener (if using) in a blender. Blend until smooth, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp and mint particles. Add cold water to the strained mixture and stir well to combine. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

For best results, choose a watermelon that's heavy for its size and has a yellow spot on the bottom where it sat on the ground while ripening. Keep the drink refrigerated and consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness. The recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings, and the base mixture can be frozen into ice cubes to prevent dilution when serving.

Honey Iced Green Tea

Honey Iced Green Tea is a refreshing and healthy beverage that combines the antioxidant properties of green tea with the natural sweetness of honey. This drink provides a perfect balance of flavors while offering a caffeine boost that's gentler than coffee.

This classic recipe can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests. The honey adds not only sweetness but also beneficial properties, while the green tea provides a subtle, earthy flavor that's both satisfying and energizing.

Ingredients:

• 4 green tea bags
• 4 cups water
• 2-3 tablespoons honey
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Bring 4 cups of water to just below boiling point (around 175°F/80°C). Remove from heat and add the green tea bags. Let steep for 3-4 minutes – no longer, as green tea can become bitter when over-steeped. Remove the tea bags and stir in honey while the tea is still warm, ensuring it dissolves completely. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

Once cooled, transfer the tea to a pitcher and refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired.

For best results, avoid using boiling water as it can make green tea taste bitter and astringent. If you prefer a stronger tea, add more tea bags rather than steeping longer. The honey can be adjusted according to taste, and you can substitute other sweeteners like agave nectar or maple syrup. Store any leftover tea in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Berry Banana Smoothie

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – you can use fresh or frozen fruit, adjust the sweetness to your liking, and even add protein powder or other supplements to make it more filling. The combination of berries and bananas creates a beautiful purple hue and a perfectly balanced flavor profile that appeals to both adults and children.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• 1 cup milk or plant-based alternative
• ½ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 4-5 ice cubes
• 1 handful of spinach (optional)

Begin by gathering all ingredients and ensuring your banana is properly ripened for optimal sweetness. If using frozen fruit, reduce or eliminate the ice cubes. Add all ingredients to a high-powered blender, starting with the liquid ingredients first to help with blending efficiency.

Blend on high speed for 60-90 seconds until completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add more liquid in small increments until reaching desired consistency. Pour into glasses and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

For the best results, use frozen fruit instead of fresh to create a thicker, colder smoothie without diluting the flavors with ice. The smoothie can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though separation may occur – simply re-blend or shake well before consuming. Adding a scoop of protein powder, chia seeds, or flax seeds can increase the nutritional value without significantly affecting the taste.

Coconut Lime Refresher

The Coconut Lime Refresher is a tropical-inspired beverage that combines the smooth, creamy notes of coconut with the bright, zesty kick of fresh lime. This drink perfectly balances sweetness and acidity, creating a refreshing experience that transports you to a beachside paradise.

Whether served as a mocktail or with a splash of rum for an adult version, this versatile drink works beautifully for summer gatherings, pool parties, or any occasion when you need a cooling, exotic beverage. The coconut cream adds a luxurious texture while the lime provides a citrusy punch that keeps the drink from becoming too heavy.

In a large pitcher, combine the coconut cream and simple syrup, whisking until smooth. Add the fresh lime juice and coconut water, stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more simple syrup if desired.

Fill tall glasses with ice cubes. Pour the coconut lime mixture into each glass, leaving about an inch of space at the top. For added effervescence, top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with fresh lime wedges and mint leaves before serving.

• 1 cup coconut cream
• ½ cup fresh lime juice
• 2 cups coconut water
• 2 tablespoons simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Lime wedges for garnish
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Club soda (optional)

Extra Tips: Store unused coconut cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled varieties. If the mixture separates, simply stir before serving. To make this drink ahead of time, prepare the base mixture without ice and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Mango Lassi

Mango lassi is a beloved Indian yogurt-based drink that combines the sweetness of ripe mangoes with the creamy tanginess of yogurt. This refreshing beverage is particularly popular during hot summer months and serves as the perfect accompaniment to spicy Indian cuisine.

Originally from Punjab, India, this smooth and cooling drink has gained worldwide popularity for its simple preparation and delightful taste. While traditional lassi can be either sweet or savory, the mango variant has become one of the most recognized versions internationally.

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2-3 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 6-8 ice cubes
• Pinch of saffron (optional)
• Mint leaves for garnish

Add the chopped mangoes, yogurt, milk, sugar, and cardamom powder to a blender. Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy, ensuring no mango chunks remain. Add ice cubes and blend again until the mixture reaches a thick, smooth consistency. If using saffron, add it during the final blend for an aromatic touch.

For best results, chill the mangoes and yogurt beforehand. If the lassi is too thick, add more milk gradually until reaching the desired consistency. Some varieties of mangoes are sweeter than others, so adjust the sugar quantity accordingly. The drink can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though it's best served immediately.

Always use ripe mangoes for the best flavor, as unripe ones can make the lassi taste sour. Fresh homemade yogurt works better than store-bought varieties due to its natural creaminess. If fresh mangoes aren't available, canned mango pulp can be substituted, though the taste might differ slightly. For a thicker consistency, reduce the milk quantity or add more yogurt.

Sparkling Citrus Punch

Sparkling Citrus Punch is a refreshing and vibrant beverage that combines the natural sweetness of various citrus fruits with the effervescence of sparkling water. Perfect for parties, summer gatherings, or any special occasion, this punch can be prepared in advance and customized to suit different taste preferences.

This non-alcoholic punch recipe serves 8-10 people and can be easily scaled up for larger events. The combination of fresh citrus juices creates a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, while the sparkling water adds a delightful fizzy element that makes this drink especially memorable.

• 2 cups fresh orange juice
• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup fresh lime juice
• 1/2 cup simple syrup
• 4 cups sparkling water
• 2 oranges, thinly sliced
• 2 lemons, thinly sliced
• 2 limes, thinly sliced
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish

In a large punch bowl or pitcher, combine the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and lime juice. Add the simple syrup and stir until well combined. Just before serving, add the sparkling water and gently stir to maintain carbonation. Float the citrus slices in the punch and add a generous amount of ice.

For presentation, garnish individual glasses with fresh mint leaves and additional citrus slices. The punch can be made more festive by freezing some of the citrus slices in ice cubes ahead of time.

To maintain the best flavor and fizz, prepare the citrus juice mixture up to 24 hours in advance, but add the sparkling water only when ready to serve. If you prefer a sweeter punch, adjust the amount of simple syrup to taste, or substitute ginger ale for part of the sparkling water.

Golden Milk Turmeric Latte

Golden milk, an ancient Ayurvedic drink, has gained modern popularity for its potential health benefits and comforting qualities. This warming beverage combines turmeric with other spices and plant-based milk to create a soothing, golden-hued drink that's perfect for any time of day.

The key to a perfect turmeric latte lies in the balance of spices and the careful heating process that allows the flavors to meld together. While traditional recipes use cow's milk, this version uses coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture that complements the earthy notes of turmeric and other spices.

• 2 cups unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of ground cardamom (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the mixture is well combined and starts to steam, but don't let it boil. Reduce heat to low and continue to whisk for 2-3 minutes, allowing the spices to fully incorporate and release their flavors.

Remove from heat and strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into mugs. This step is optional but helps ensure a smooth consistency without any spice granules at the bottom of your drink.

The black pepper in this recipe is crucial as it enhances the bioavailability of turmeric's active compound, curcumin. Store any leftover golden milk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently when ready to serve. Give the mixture a quick whisk or blend before drinking, as the spices may settle at the bottom.

Virgin Mojito Mocktail

Virgin Mojito Mocktail is a refreshing non-alcoholic version of the classic Cuban cocktail. This crisp and minty drink maintains all the vibrant flavors of the original without any rum, making it perfect for all ages and occasions.

The key to a great Virgin Mojito lies in the proper muddling of fresh mint leaves and the balance between sweet and sour elements. When prepared correctly, this mocktail offers a perfect blend of citrus, mint, and fizz that's especially enjoyable on warm days or as a sophisticated non-alcoholic alternative at social gatherings.

Place mint leaves in a tall glass and add simple syrup. Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently press the mint leaves against the bottom of the glass to release their oils. Add fresh lime juice and crushed ice to the glass. Top with club soda, filling the glass to about 1/4 inch from the rim.

Gently stir the mixture with a long spoon to combine all ingredients without damaging the mint leaves. The drink should appear cloudy with small mint pieces floating throughout. Garnish with a fresh sprig of mint and a lime wedge.

For the best results, avoid over-muddling the mint leaves as this can release bitter flavors and create an unpleasant texture. Fresh ingredients are crucial – use newly picked mint leaves and freshly squeezed lime juice rather than bottled alternatives. Simple syrup can be made ahead by combining equal parts sugar and hot water, then cooling completely before use.

• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons simple syrup
• Club soda
• 1 cup crushed ice
• 1 lime wedge for garnish
• Additional mint sprig for garnish

Peach Iced Tea

Fresh, sweet peaches combined with classic iced tea create the perfect summer refreshment. This Southern favorite brings together the robust flavor of black tea with the natural sweetness of ripe peaches, resulting in a beverage that's both sophisticated and refreshing.

Making peach iced tea from scratch allows you to control the sweetness level and ensures a pure, natural taste without artificial flavors. The key is using fresh, ripe peaches during peak season, though frozen peaches can work well during off-season months.

• 6 ripe peaches, pitted and sliced
• 4 black tea bags
• 8 cups water, divided
• 1/2 cup honey or sugar (adjustable)
• 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint sprigs for garnish

Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Remove from heat, add the tea bags, and let steep for 5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and allow the tea to cool to room temperature. Meanwhile, in a separate saucepan, combine sliced peaches with 2 cups of water and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes or until peaches are very soft. Strain the peach mixture through a fine-mesh sieve, pressing gently to extract all the juice. Combine the peach juice with the cooled tea, add honey or sugar, and stir until dissolved.

Add the remaining 2 cups of cold water and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. Serve over ice, garnished with fresh peach slices, lemon, and mint if desired.

For best results, allow the tea to chill for at least 4 hours before serving. The peach syrup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If using frozen peaches, thaw them completely before cooking. For a stronger peach flavor, let the strained peaches sit in the finished tea for an additional hour before removing them.

Strawberry Basil Spritzer

A Strawberry Basil Spritzer is a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage that combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the aromatic essence of basil leaves. This sophisticated drink offers a perfect balance between fruity and herbal notes, making it an excellent choice for summer gatherings, brunches, or any occasion that calls for an elegant mocktail.

The key to creating the perfect Strawberry Basil Spritzer lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients and allowing enough time for the flavors to properly infuse. The muddling process releases essential oils from the basil and helps extract the natural sweetness from the strawberries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that's both complex and refreshing.

• 6 fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves
• 1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Additional strawberries and basil leaves for garnish

In a cocktail shaker or tall glass, combine the quartered strawberries, basil leaves, and honey. Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently muddle the ingredients until the strawberries release their juices and the basil becomes fragrant. Add the lime juice and fill the shaker with ice. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to properly combine all ingredients and chill the mixture.

Strain the mixture into two tall glasses filled with ice, filling them about one-third full. Top with club soda or sparkling water, gently stirring to combine. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices and basil leaves before serving immediately.

For the best results, choose strawberries that are fully ripe but still firm, and select bright green basil leaves without any dark spots. The drink can be prepared up to the muddling stage several hours in advance, but add the club soda just before serving to maintain its effervescence. If you prefer a sweeter drink, adjust the honey quantity to taste, or for a more intense basil flavor, let the muddled mixture sit for 5-10 minutes before straining.

Cucumber Ginger Fizz

Cucumber Ginger Fizz is a refreshing and sophisticated non-alcoholic beverage that combines the cooling properties of cucumber with the warmth and spice of fresh ginger. This elegant drink is perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or any occasion where you want to serve something unique and memorable.

The combination of sparkling water with muddled cucumber and ginger creates a light, effervescent drink that's both hydrating and flavorful. While simple in its ingredients, this fizz delivers complex layers of taste that make it far more interesting than ordinary soft drinks or juices.

Ingredients:

• 1 medium cucumber, sliced
• 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh lime juice
• 4 cups sparkling water
• 2 tablespoons honey or agave nectar
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Cucumber ribbons for garnish

Start by muddling cucumber slices and ginger in a large pitcher or mixing bowl until the cucumber releases its juice and the ginger is well-crushed. Add honey or agave nectar and stir until completely dissolved. Pour in the fresh lime juice and mix well to combine all flavors.

Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving pitcher, pressing gently to extract maximum flavor. Add sparkling water and stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

For best results, prepare the cucumber-ginger base up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain maximum fizz. Consider freezing cucumber slices in ice cubes for an extra elegant presentation, and always serve the drink immediately after adding the sparkling water to preserve the effervescence.