Save Refreshing, hydrating mocktails blend flavored water enhancers, fresh fruit, and herbs for a healthy alternative to sugary drinks. Ready in minutes, they make it easy to stay hydrated and enjoy vibrant flavors without added sugar.
Last summer, I began making water-based mocktails after searching for enjoyable ways to drink more water. These quickly turned into my favorite when friends came over, each of us customizing our flavors and garnishing with fresh herbs from the garden.
Ingredients
- Cold filtered water: 4 cups
- Ice cubes: 1 cup
- Sugar-free strawberry syrup: 1 tbsp, or substitute with lemon-lime syrup, peach-flavored water enhancer, or coconut syrup
- Lemon: ½, sliced
- Lime: ½, sliced
- Fresh strawberries: ½ cup, sliced
- Fresh mint leaves: ¼ cup
- Small cucumber: ½, sliced
- Lemon wheels: Optional garnish
- Mint sprigs: Optional garnish
- Edible flowers: Optional garnish
Instructions
- Prepare glasses:
- Fill a large pitcher or two tall glasses with ice cubes.
- Add water:
- Pour in the cold filtered water.
- Mix flavor:
- Add your chosen syrup or water enhancer and stir well to combine.
- Add fresh ingredients:
- Add the fresh fruit, cucumber, and mint to infuse the flavor.
- Meld flavors:
- Stir gently and let sit for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve:
- Pour into glasses, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.
Save This recipe is a staple for my family on hot afternoons. Watching my kids add their favorite fruits and choose colorful garnishes makes hydration feel festive every time.
Creative Mix-Ins
Try mixing two different syrups together for unique combinations, or add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist. Fresh basil, rosemary, or muddled berries offer even more refreshing ways to experiment.
Tools & Serving Suggestions
Use a large pitcher and mixing spoon for easy preparation. Serve mocktails in tall glasses for visual appeal, and let guests add their own garnishes at the table.
Nutritional Benefits
These mocktails are very low calorie, vegan, and naturally gluten-free. They contain only about 8 calories per serving, making them a guilt-free way to enjoy refreshing flavor while staying hydrated.
Save Customize these mocktails to your taste and enjoy them as a refreshing alternative any time. They're perfect for summer gatherings and everyday hydration.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use sparkling water instead of still water?
Yes, sparkling water adds a fizzy twist to the drink. You can replace some or all of the filtered water based on your preference.
- → What fruits work best for flavor infusion?
Lemons, limes, strawberries, and cucumbers are perfect choices. You can also experiment with other fresh fruits.
- → Are the syrups and water enhancers necessary?
No, they amplify flavor but you can skip them for an all-natural version or substitute with stevia drops or fruit purées.
- → How can I make this beverage sweeter?
Adjust syrup or enhancer to taste, or try adding stevia drops for extra sweetness while keeping calories low.
- → Is this drink suitable for special diets?
Yes, it's vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie. Always verify syrup and enhancer labels for allergens if needed.
- → What garnishes pair well with this beverage?
Lemon wheels, mint sprigs, and edible flowers add a colorful, aromatic touch to the presentation.