Refreshing and light beverages are the ultimate lifesavers during the sweltering summer months. To bring some excitement to your picnics and parties this season, we’ve compiled a list of refreshing and easy-to-make summer cocktails featuring citrus and tropical ingredients. These drinks aren’t just tasty; they help keep you hydrated and protect your body from the harsh effects of the summer heat.
Hot weather often leads to excessive sweating, which dehydrates your body quickly. To stay cool and refreshed, you don’t always need complicated recipes—a simple lemonade with a few ice cubes can work wonders. Drinks like this not only quench your thirst but also help maintain your body’s water levels. Plus, many of these beverages provide benefits like protecting your skin from sunburn and other heat-related issues.
Here’s a handy list of simple and delicious summer cocktails, complete with easy preparation methods to help you beat the heat and stay energized.
### Coolest Summer Cocktails to Beat the Heat
**1. Sugarcane Drink**
Packed with health benefits, sugarcane juice is a perfect summer cooler. It acts as an energy booster, hydrates your body, and keeps you refreshed. This natural drink is usually made by extracting juice from sugarcane sticks, though you can add mint or other flavors if desired.
**2. Coconut Water**
Fresh coconut water is one of the easiest options to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. It’s a natural, healthy drink that helps manage dehydration, sweating, and even low blood pressure. You can grab a coconut from a street vendor and enjoy it anytime.
**3. Jaljeera Drink**
A popular solution to stomach issues and dehydration, jaljeera is a tangy and refreshing drink. Just mix a jaljeera packet (made from roasted cumin seeds and salt) into a glass of water, add a few ice cubes, and stir. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for staying cool.
**4. Aam Panna**
This tangy drink made from raw mangoes is a summer favorite. It’s delicious, easy to prepare, and packed with health benefits like protecting your skin from sun damage. To make it, blend raw mango pulp with mint leaves, cumin, and black salt. Sip on this revitalizing drink daily to stay energized in the heat.
**5. Lassi**
A classic Punjabi favorite, lassi is a yogurt-based drink that instantly cools and energizes your body. To prepare a basic lassi, blend yogurt with water and sugar for a smooth consistency. You can also experiment by adding ingredients like mint, banana, or mango for a twist. The traditional version, however, remains a go-to choice.
**6. Lemonade**
When it comes to combatting dehydration, lemonade is a classic option. Mix freshly squeezed lemon juice with water, sugar, salt, and a few mint leaves to create a refreshing drink in under a minute. Feel free to experiment by adding cumin or black pepper for an extra kick.
**7. Watermelon Juice**
As one of the juiciest and most hydrating fruits of the season, watermelon is excellent for beating the heat. Blend fresh watermelon with a little sugar for extra sweetness, and your drink is ready. You can enjoy this revitalizing juice twice a day for an energy boost.
**8. Buttermilk (Chaas)**
Chaas, or buttermilk, is a traditional summer drink that protects your body from the sun and improves digestion. Simply mix curd with water and add a pinch of salt or sugar as per your preference. You can also flavor it with roasted cumin for a spiced version. Enjoy this drink before heading out to stay cool.
**9. Sattu Drink**
Originating in northeast India, this protein-packed drink is incredibly cooling and filling. To make it, mix sattu flour with water, salt, and lemon for a light and refreshing beverage that lasts all day. It’s nutritious, affordable, and easy to prepare.
—
### Tips for Staying Refreshed All Summer
In addition to enjoying refreshing drinks, here are a few simple tips to help you stay cool during hot, sticky summer days:
– **Take Two Showers Daily**: Showering twice a day helps wash away sweat while keeping your body temperature in check. Use refreshing body gels for a cooling effect and deep cleansing.
– **Exfoliate Your Face**: Hot weather can clog your pores with sweat and dirt, leading to skin issues. Use a good face wash or exfoliator to clean your skin properly, and apply a cooling face mask for extra care.
– **Freshen Up Your Mouth**: Keep your mouth clean and refreshed by brushing twice daily with a minty toothpaste. You can also chew mint gum to avoid bad breath caused by the heat.
– **Hair Care**: Keep your hair clean and manageable to avoid discomfort caused by sweat. Shorter hairstyles or tied-back ponytails work well during summer. Wash your hair 2-3 times a week for better hygiene.
– **Moisturize Lightly**: Use a light, scented lotion instead of heavy creams. Apply sunscreen to shield your skin from the sun’s rays.
– **Dress Light**: Wear loose, light-colored clothes made from breathable fabrics like cotton. Light shades like white, pink, or yellow repel heat, keeping you comfortable.
– **Stay Hydrated and Eat Fresh Fruits**: Drink plenty of water and include seasonal fruits in your diet. Fruits like watermelon and mango are excellent for maintaining hydration and energy.
– **Enjoy Fresh Air**: Take morning or evening walks to enjoy fresh air, which boosts your energy and keeps you in a good mood.
– **Sleep in a Cool Space**: Ensure your bedroom has good ventilation. Open windows or use a fan to help circulate fresh air for a better night’s sleep.
—
No season is completely perfect, but with the right strategies, you can make the best of it. Use these refreshing drinks and practical tips to enjoy summer to the fullest and stay cool despite the heat.