Summer has been seriously hot this year, and these are five of my most popular summer drinks that my family and I love making to cool down. I wanted to put together a collection with a little bit of everything – some traditional, some fresh and healthy, and a couple that are perfect for summer parties and evenings with friends. From refreshing lemonades and homemade elderflower syrup to a fruity cherry smoothie and a beautiful blueberry gin & tonic, each one has something different to offer. Staying hydrated is especially important on hot days, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make it delicious and fun too. These are five drinks I’ll be making all summer long. 🍋🥒🌼🍒🫐
1. Ginger Lemonade 🍋🫚
When you need something seriously refreshing on a hot summer day, this ginger lemonade is one of my favorites. This recipe went viral with more than 3 million views, and it’s easy to see why. It’s made with two whole organic lemons, fresh ginger, mint, water, and plenty of ice, then blended and strained for a smooth, refreshing drink. Lemons provide vitamin C, while ginger adds a fresh, slightly spicy kick, and mint makes every sip feel extra cooling. Using the whole lemon gives the drink a bright, intense citrus flavor. I recommend choosing organic lemons since you’ll be blending the peel as well. It’s quick, refreshing, and a delicious way to enjoy a homemade summer drink.
2. Cucumber Lemonade 🥒🍋
This cucumber lemonade is a light and refreshing way to enjoy fresh summer ingredients. Cucumbers have a high water content, making them a great base for a hydrating drink, while fresh lemon adds vitamin C and a bright citrus flavor. A little honey balances the tartness, and mint or lemon balm adds an extra refreshing touch. It’s especially delicious on hot days when you want something cold, fresh, and naturally flavorful.
Check out the full Cucumber Lemonade recipe here.
3. Homemade Elderflower Syrup 🌼
This homemade elderflower syrup is a true Balkan summer classic and one of those recipes that brings back memories of warm summer days and homemade drinks. Made with fragrant elderflowers, fresh lemons, citric acid, water, and sugar, it takes a little patience but is surprisingly simple to prepare. Once ready, just mix a little syrup with cold water for a beautifully floral, refreshing drink. It’s perfect to keep in the fridge throughout summer and serve whenever you need something refreshing. Every family seems to have its own version, and this is the recipe my family loves. 🌼🍋
Check out the full Homemade Elderflower Syrup recipe here
4. Summer Cherry Smoothie 🍒
This refreshing summer smoothie combines sweet cherries, raspberries, dates, milk, and plenty of ice for a naturally fruity and creamy drink that’s perfect for hot days. Cherries and raspberries provide antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, while dates add natural sweetness and milk adds protein and creaminess. I love serving this one ice-cold by the swimming pool — simple, colorful, and exactly what summer should taste like. 🍒❤️
5. Blueberry Gin & Tonic 🫐🍸
This Blueberry Gin & Tonic is made for summer parties — refreshing, colorful, and a little bit extra. I served it in a frozen ice cup with a sprig of rosemary that looks like a little pine tree, making the drink just as fun to look at as it is to sip. I used artisan Bogowski Gin from Croatia, which pairs beautifully with the sweet-tart flavor of blueberries and fresh rosemary. It’s a simple cocktail with a playful presentation that is sure to get everyone talking at your next summer gathering. 🫐🌿🍸
Whatever your favorite is, remember to stay hydrated during the hot summer days. Keep plenty of water on hand, enjoy fresh seasonal ingredients, and treat yourself to something delicious along the way. From refreshing lemonades to homemade classics and fun summer cocktails, there’s always a good reason to raise a glass. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and enjoy every sip of summer! 🍋🥒🌼🍒🫐
