Peppermint Berry Iced Beverage

This refreshing peppermint berry iced beverage is a delightful and hydrating treat, perfect for hot summer days. Combining the vibrant flavors of raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries, it is sweetened naturally with citrusy lemon and invigorating peppermint leaves. The drink offers a visually appealing aspect, with beautiful berries suspended in ice cubes, which is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. With a touch of lemon juice added to the mix, this beverage gains a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the berries. The addition of thinly sliced cucumber provides a subtle, fresh undertone. This recipe is easy to prepare and can be made in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen as the ice melts. It's a great option for picnics or garden parties. The drink is simple yet sophisticated, offering a touch of elegance to any gathering. Serve this refreshing beverage to your guests and watch them savor every sip!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

125 g raspberries
125 g blueberries
125 g strawberries
40 g peppermint leaves
1 lemon
1 cucumber (optional)
1 lemon juice
2 liters of water

Preparation Time

Total Time: 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare Berry Ice Cubes: Place the raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries into ice cube trays or silicone muffin molds.
Add Lemon Juice: Pour water mixed with lemon juice over the berries, ensuring they are fully submerged. Freeze them until solid; make plenty of these berry ice cubes for your beverage.
Begin Assembly: Once the berry ice cubes are frozen, fill glasses or a pitcher with the berry ice cubes.
Add Peppermint Leaves: Include the peppermint leaves by spreading them evenly in the pitcher or each glass to infuse their minty flavor.
Pour in Water: Gently pour water over the berry ice cubes and peppermint leaves; be careful not to disturb the arrangement.
Add Lemon and Cucumber Slices: Slice the lemon into thin wedges and cut the cucumber into thin slices. Add these to the pitcher or glasses to enhance the visual appeal and add extra flavor.
Serve and Enjoy: Give your beverage a quick stir before serving, allowing the flavors to meld as the ice melts. Adjust the mix of berries and mint as per preference.
Optional Garnish: To enhance presentation, you can add a lemon wedge or a sprig of fresh mint to each glass.
Consider a Stirrer: Provide a stirrer in each glass to mix the infused flavors for individual preference.
Chill Further: If preparing for a later time, refrigerate until ready to serve.
Stay Hydrated: This beverage doubles as a delicious way to keep hydrated with its high water content.
Plan for Picnics: Perfect for outdoor events, ensuring you have a cooler box to keep the drink cold.

Tips

Berry Variety: Feel free to swap or add different berries based on availability or preference.
Mint Alternative: Use basil leaves as an alternative to peppermint for a different herbal note.
Sweetness Addition: Add a spoonful of honey or agave syrup for extra sweetness if desired.
Citrus Twist: Experiment with orange slices instead of lemon for a sweeter citrus touch.

Nutritions

Calories: Approx. 50 per serving
Carbohydrates: 12g
Proteins: 1g
Fats: 0g

Variations

Sugar-Free Version: Substitute lemon with lime for a different tang and omit any sweeteners.
Herbal Infusion: Use green tea instead of plain water for an antioxidant boost.
Tropical Flair: Add pineapple chunks for a tropical vibe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with light salad options like cucumber and tomato salad.
Complement with light snacks like a cheese and cracker platter.

Best Places

The Alchemist's Garden - A whimsical café known for its creative infused drinks and botanical atmosphere. Location: 121 Magic Lane, Asheville, USA.
Berry Bliss Bar - Offers berry-based beverages in a chic setting. Location: 45 Fruit St, Toronto, Canada.
Mint Haven - A serene café focusing on herbal beverages, with refreshing mint-infused drinks. Location: 78 Greenway Ave, Dublin, Ireland.
Citrus Sky Lounge - Offers panoramic city views with a selection of citrus-based cocktails. Location: Rooftop, 12 Citrus Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
Flora’s Nectar Bar - A quaint spot specializing in fresh fruit drinks. Location: 9 Blossom Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
Garden Grove Café - A sustainable café featuring organic and garden-fresh drinks. Location: 33 Orchard Lane, Seattle, USA.
Aromatic Waters - Known for its aromatic infused water creations. Location: 29 Lakeview Terrace, Geneva, Switzerland.
Nature's Palette - Offers drinks showcasing natural flavors and handpicked ingredients. Location: 18 Nature Dr, Wellington, New Zealand.
Vista Verde Kitchen - Combines beautiful vistas with vibrant, health-focused beverages. Location: 55 Horizon Way, Lisbon, Portugal.
Eden’s Fruit Corner - Offers fresh fruit-based beverages with a relaxing ambiance. Location: 67 Paradise Path, Honolulu, USA.

Enjoy creating and sharing this peppermint berry iced beverage with friends and family!