August is in full swing and with it the scorching heat of summer. As temperatures rise, everyone is looking for ways to stay cool and refreshed. On the days you can’t make it to the beach or pool, why not have a little adventure in the kitchen? Collect your creativity and a few simple ingredients to make these cool treats at home. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to a few fun and easy DIY recipes that will help you brave the August heat and keep refreshed all month long.
1. Smoothies
The endless smoothie ocean is as vast as your imagination. The combinations you can create with a blender, some fruit, veggies, liquid, and ice are endless. Smoothies are perfect for breakfast, a light lunch, or an alternative dinner and can be as simple or complex as you like. Whether you use just one fruit or half of your fridge, it’s time to let your creativity run wild! Blending on the fly or sticking to a recipe, smoothies are hard to mess up. Just make sure you use good, fresh ingredients.
2. Homemade Fruit Popsicles
Popsicles are a classic summer treat that never gets old. Making your own at home allows you to control the ingredients and create flavors that suit your taste. Blend your favorite fruits, such as berries, mangoes, or peaches, with a little water, fruit juice, or milk. You can even use your favorite smoothie recipe! Pour the mixture into popsicle molds and insert popsicle sticks. Let them freeze for a few hours until solid. These fruity popsicles are not only refreshing but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
3. Infused Water
We all need to stay hydrated in the August heat, Infused water is an excellent way to do this without added sugars or artificial flavors. For a delicious, cooling summer drink create a combination with your own favorite ingredients or any of these winning flavors:
Strawberry + lemon + basil
Orange + ginger
Watermelon + mint
Cucumber + lemon + mint
Pineapple + mango
Thinly slice your fruits and vegetables, then place the slices in a pitcher of water. Allow it to sit in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before serving. The addition of honey will give sweetness, but the flavors are so wonderful on their own you probably won’t need it.
4. Iced Teas
Black, green, red, or herbal, teas should not be reserved only for cold winter nights. Served over ice, tea transforms into one of the most refreshing summer drinks. When you control the ingredients, iced tea becomes a healthier alternative to sodas and commercially available drinks. A classic in many homes during the hot summer months, this simple delicious drink has been quenching thirst for generations. And with a world of different flavor options, trying something new can be a tasty adventure. Brew your tea hot, cold, or in the sun for that extra summer touch. Once ready, pour over ice and add a touch of honey or a splash of fruit juice for sweetness. Iced teas are perfect for sipping on a hot afternoon.
5. Salad is Your Friend
Pasta and Greek, Cole Slaw or Israeli, salads are the best way to enjoy a light refreshing meal without adding heat. Worried it won’t fill you up? Today’s salads are a far cry from yesteryear’s sad bowl of limp lettuce and token tomato. Thankfully salads have evolved into elaborate one-bowl meals overflowing with fresh, unique, and mouth-watering ingredients. In a time where Buddha Bowls dominate, salad is your best option for a good nutritious meal in the summer heat.
With these refreshing recipe ideas, you can beat the August heat and keep cool throughout the summer. Whether it’s with a thick yummy smoothie or clear refreshing iced tea have fun trying new flavors and recipes. Embrace your creativity in the kitchen with these fun and delicious ideas. Enjoy the season’s bounty to its fullest while staying hydrated and refreshed. Savor the joys of summer while it lasts!
Photo credit: Jarritos
