Summer is finally here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing glass of iced tea infused with the cooling essence of mint? Or perhaps you’d prefer a sweet treat like mint chocolate chip ice cream or a fruity smoothie featuring the star ingredient? Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 refreshing mint recipes that will keep you cool and satisfied all summer long. From classic cocktails to savory dishes and decadent desserts, we’re about to dive into the world of minty delights that are sure to become your new go-to’s for hot summer days.
Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
Cool down with this refreshing mint chocolate chip ice cream recipe, perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp peppermint extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add in the unsweetened cocoa powder and whisk until well combined.
3. Stir in the peppermint extract.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add in the semi-sweet chocolate chips.
7. Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Fresh Mint Mojito
Experience the refreshing essence of summer with this classic cocktail recipe featuring fresh mint leaves and a hint of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz white rum
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Handful of fresh mint leaves
– Club soda
– Ice
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add rum, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a highball glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and garnish with additional fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Watermelon Mint Salad
Beat the heat with this refreshing and light salad that combines sweet watermelon with cooling mint. Perfect for hot summer days, this recipe is easy to make and packs a flavorful punch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups diced seedless watermelon
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt to taste
– Fresh feta cheese or crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced watermelon and chopped mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the lime-honey mixture over the watermelon-mint mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. If using, crumble feta or goat cheese over the top of the salad and serve.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Mint Pesto Pasta
This refreshing summer pasta dish combines the brightness of mint with the creaminess of pesto, perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine mint leaves, basil pesto, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the pesto mixture to cooked pasta and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for pasta)
Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce
Experience the perfect blend of savory lamb and bright mint flavors with this easy-to-make recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these lamb chops are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 lamb chops
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, combine mint leaves, yogurt, lemon juice, and honey. Mix well.
3. Season lamb chops with salt and pepper.
4. Brush lamb chops with olive oil and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve lamb chops with mint sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt with Mint and Honey
A simple and sweet treat that combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the cooling freshness of mint and the warmth of honey. Perfect as a healthy snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp pure honey
– Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped mint and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon the yogurt into a serving dish or individual cups.
3. Top the yogurt with the mint-honey mixture.
4. If desired, add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just mix and serve!)
Mint and Cucumber Gazpacho
Escape to a refreshing summer with this revitalizing gazpacho, infused with the cooling essence of mint and the crispness of cucumber.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups diced cucumber
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine cucumber, tomatoes, mint, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.
2. Blend until smooth, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, stir in Greek yogurt if using (this adds a creamy texture).
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves or a sprinkle of paprika.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and chilling time included)
Enjoy your refreshing Mint and Cucumber Gazpacho!
Pea and Mint Soup
This vibrant green soup is a perfect blend of sweet peas, cooling mint, and creamy goodness. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional soups that’s ideal for spring and summer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen peas
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the peas, broth, and mint leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mint Julep Cocktail
Experience the refreshing essence of Kentucky’s famous Derby Day drink with this simple recipe. A symphony of minty freshness, sweet bourbon, and crushed ice, the Mint Julep is a timeless delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves
– 1 1/2 ounces bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Crushed ice
Instructions:
1. In a silver cup or metal bowl, gently press the mint leaves with a muddler or spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the bourbon and sugar; stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Fill the cup with crushed ice, stirring to combine.
4. Serve immediately and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and enjoy.
Strawberry Mint Smoothie
Revitalize your day with this refreshing blend of sweet strawberries and cooling mint. This smoothie is perfect for a hot summer morning or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine strawberries, mint leaves, banana, and Greek yogurt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. You can add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker, colder smoothie.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Minty Lemonade
Minty Lemonade Recipe
Cool down on a hot summer day with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 2 cups sugar
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- Slice of lemon for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the lemon juice and sugar until well combined.
- Add in the water and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the chopped mint leaves to the mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time:
Enjoy your Minty Lemonade!
Grilled Pineapple with Mint Glaze
Elevate your summer BBQs with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of grilled pineapple with the cooling essence of fresh mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into 1-inch wedges
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mint, honey, and lime juice until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of pineapple wedges with the mint glaze.
4. Grill pineapple for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Moroccan Mint Tea
In Morocco, mint tea is an integral part of daily life, often served as a sign of hospitality and friendship. This refreshing drink is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon loose-leaf green tea
– 1/4 cup fresh peppermint leaves
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the boiling water to a simmer.
2. Add the loose-leaf green tea and let it steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the desired strength is reached.
3. Add the fresh peppermint leaves and stir well to combine.
4. Remove from heat and let it infuse for another 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea into cups using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the mint leaves.
6. If desired, add sugar to taste and/or serve over ice cubes.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mint and Feta Stuffed Chicken
Elevate your dinner game with this refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the brightness of mint with the tanginess of feta.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together feta cheese, mint leaves, and garlic.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the mint-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Mint Brownies
Rich, fudgy brownies get a cooling boost from peppermint extract and dark chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Melt butter and sugar in a medium saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat; stir in cocoa powder until well combined. Let cool slightly.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and peppermint extracts.
5. Add flour and chocolate chips to the saucepan. Stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Avocado Mint Dip
This creamy dip is perfect for hot summer days when you need a cool and refreshing snack or appetizer. With the combination of ripe avocados, fresh mint, and tangy lime juice, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 lime, juiced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado flesh, mint leaves, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Mint and Basil Pesto Pizza
This Mint and Basil Pesto Pizza combines the bright flavors of mint and basil with the richness of pesto, all atop a crispy crust. Perfect for a summer evening or a unique dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with chopped mint and basil leaves.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the herbs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Thai Beef Salad with Mint
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the freshness of mint. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup diced yellow onion
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef strips, mixed greens, mint leaves, cilantro, red bell pepper, and yellow onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together fish sauce, lime juice, and vegetable oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Roasted Carrots with Mint Yogurt
Brighten up your plate with this refreshing side dish that combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the cooling creaminess of mint yogurt. Perfect for springtime gatherings or as a healthy addition to your daily meals.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (for added sweetness)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized.
4. In a small bowl, mix together yogurt and chopped mint leaves.
5. Serve roasted carrots with a dollop of mint yogurt on top.
6. Optional: drizzle with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peach and Mint Sorbet
This sweet and tangy sorbet is the perfect way to beat the heat on a warm summer day. The combination of juicy peaches, refreshing mint, and creamy sweetness will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine the peaches, sugar, and mint leaves. Blend until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in the peach mixture and honey until well combined.
3. Stir in the lemon juice.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (depending on your ice cream maker)
Summary
Get ready to cool off with these refreshing mint recipes perfect for summer. From sweet treats like Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream and Chocolate Mint Brownies, to savory dishes like Watermelon Mint Salad and Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce, there’s something for everyone. Quench your thirst with a Fresh Mint Mojito or Minty Lemonade, or indulge in a decadent dessert like Peach and Mint Sorbet. With these 20 recipes, you’ll be sipping, snacking, and savoring all season long. From classic cocktails to innovative dishes, mint is the perfect ingredient to add a refreshing twist to your summer cooking routine.
