Summer gardening season is upon us, and I don’t know about you, but I’ll need a break. Several, actually. I mean, the Florida sun can be brutal and if you’re not able (or willing) to garden at sunrise, the heat can really drain the energy from the body. What better way to reenergize than with a light and refreshing drink by the pool?
You are growing all of those delicious herbs, fruits and vegetables. Why not toss them into a glass of water allowing the gems to infuse their healthy goodness into your drink? Not only will you be refreshed in no time, but your body will reap the rewards of vitamins and antioxidants! I do love a multi-tasker. This weekend I made a cucumber-lemon-basil mix that was divine. The cucumber really comes through against the backdrop of lemon and basil. The ultimate confirmation that I had a winner on my hands was when my daughter said, “I don’t know what you put in that water, but if you make it again, I’ll drink it.”
If it’s in the refrigerator and easy-to-access, you will drink it. And so will they!
Recipes
Success! And speaking of kids, one of their all-time favorites is Rosemary-Lemonade. I serve it during my book signings and everyone raves about it. For a less sugary version, try infusing rosemary and lemon in water, chilling it in the refrigerator for a summer garden hydration. The flavors blend seamlessly and will really give your beverage a unique flair. My beverage recipe section includes Sangria, Peach-Mango-Basil juice and the ever-popular Cabbage-Carrot-Apple juice, my secret remedy for stomach ulcers.
The best part of all is that you can get VERY creative when it comes to creating light and refreshing drinks this summer. Cucumber, lemon and mint would be a super combination, as would the inclusion of dill. Berries go well with mint, while stevia makes everything sweeter! Like this Chilled Cucumber Soup recipe. Amazingly light and delicious!
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