Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing glass of purple goodness? As we dive into the warmest season of the year, our taste buds crave something cool, revitalizing, and Instagram-worthy. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering purple drink recipes that will quench your thirst and tantalize your senses.
From classic lemonades to innovative smoothies, cocktails, and teas, our collection of recipes is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or tart flavors, we’ve got something for everyone. So, grab a glass, and let’s dive into the world of purple drinks!
Lavender Lemonade with Honey
This sweet and tangy drink is infused with the floral flavors of lavender, perfect for hot summer days. With a touch of honey, it’s a delightful twist on classic lemonade.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 4 cups water
– 2 tbsp pure honey
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the dried lavender buds to the mixture and let it steep for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator.
3. Strain the lavender from the liquid using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add water to the pitcher and stir well.
5. Stir in the honey until dissolved.
6. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a non-cooking recipe!
Blueberry Mint Iced Tea
Quench your thirst with this sweet and tangy tea infused with the freshness of mint and the sweetness of blueberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 cups fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add the blueberries and let them steep for 10-15 minutes, or until they have released their flavor and color into the water.
3. Strain the blueberries from the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add the fresh mint leaves to the tea and let them steep for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove the mint leaves and add honey if desired.
6. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including steeping time)
Blackberry Basil Smash
This refreshing cocktail combines sweet blackberries with fragrant basil, making it a perfect drink for warm weather gatherings. With its vibrant colors and unique flavors, this Blackberry Basil Smash is sure to impress your friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/4 cup blackberries
– 1/4 cup basil leaves
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the blackberries and basil leaves with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavors and colors.
2. Add the gin, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker. Fill with ice cubes.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice cubes.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None
Grapefruit Rosemary Spritzer
Combine the tanginess of grapefruit with the herbaceousness of rosemary for a unique and revitalizing spritzer perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup rosemary simple syrup (see below)
– 2 cups sparkling water
– 1/4 cup fresh grapefruit slices, for garnish
– Fresh rosemary leaves, for garnish
Rosemary Simple Syrup:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine water and sugar. Heat until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and add rosemary leaves. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain simple syrup into a large pitcher. Discard rosemary leaves.
4. Add grapefruit juice to the pitcher.
5. Stir in sparkling water.
6. Garnish with fresh grapefruit slices and rosemary leaves.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refreshing drink!
Acai Berry Smoothie Bowl
Kick-start your day with a nutritious and delicious Acai Berry Smoothie Bowl! This antioxidant-rich treat is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen acai berries
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or granola
Instructions:
1. Add the acai berries, banana, and almond milk to a blender.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the chia seeds and honey.
4. Pour the mixture into a bowl.
5. Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or granola.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tips:
– You can also add spinach or kale to boost the nutritional value even more!
– Experiment with different toppings like sliced mango, shredded coconut, or chopped almonds for added flavor and texture.
Purple Rain Cocktail with Vodka
Step into a world of royal indulgence with this vibrant cocktail, inspired by the iconic purple hue of Prince’s legendary song “Purple Rain”. This recipe combines the richness of vodka with the sweetness of grapefruit juice and the tartness of lemon, all wrapped up in a deep purple cloak.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz Vodka
– 0.5 oz Grapefruit Juice
– 0.5 oz Lemon Juice
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz Blue Curaçao Liqueur
– Splash of Sparkling Water
– Ice
– Fresh purple grape for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Add Blue Curaçao Liqueur and stir gently to create a swirly effect.
6. Top with a splash of sparkling water.
7. Garnish with a fresh purple grape, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in under 2 minutes.
Elderflower Hibiscus Cooler
Beat the heat with this light and refreshing drink, perfect for hot summer days. This Elderflower Hibiscus Cooler combines the floral flavors of elderflower syrup with the subtle tartness of hibiscus tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
– 1/4 cup elderflower syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or edible flowers for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Steep the dried hibiscus flowers in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, then strain and discard the solids.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled hibiscus tea with elderflower syrup and honey (if using). Stir until dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the cooler over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Concord Grape Sparkler
Celebrate the sweetness of summer with this refreshing Concord Grape Sparkler! This fruity drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings, picnics, or just a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups concord grape juice
– 1 cup sparkling water
– 1/4 cup lemon-lime soda (such as 7-Up)
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh grapes or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pitcher with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the concord grape juice, sparkling water, and lemon-lime soda.
3. Stir gently to combine.
4. Add the simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh grapes or lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: None!
Plum and Ginger Fizz
Elevate your cocktail game with this unique and refreshing Plum and Ginger Fizz recipe, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups fresh plums, diced
• 1/4 cup ginger liqueur (such as Domaine de Canton)
• 1 cup lemon-lime soda
• 1/2 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• Sliced fresh plums and crystallized ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine diced plums and ginger liqueur. Let it infuse in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
2. Just before serving, stir in lemon-lime soda and simple syrup until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as needed.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour Plum and Ginger Fizz over the ice.
5. Garnish with sliced fresh plums and crystallized ginger for a visually appealing drink.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (infusion time) + serving preparation
Beetroot and Apple Detox Juice
Revitalize your body with this refreshing and nutrient-rich juice recipe, packed with antioxidants from beets and apples to help flush out toxins and boost overall health.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium beetroots
– 1 apple, cored and chopped
– 1/2 cup fresh kale leaves
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger
– Juice from 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Wash the beets, apple, and kale thoroughly.
2. Remove stems and leaves from the kale, and chop into small pieces.
3. Add all ingredients to a juicer or blender, depending on your preferred method.
4. Juice or blend until smooth, adding ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or sediment.
Cooking Time: None needed! Enjoy immediately.
Passionfruit Purple Punch
Revive your senses with this refreshing drink infused with the exotic flavors of passionfruit and a hint of purple sweetness!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups passionfruit juice
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/2 cup grapefruit juice
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of grenadine syrup
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine passionfruit juice, lemon-lime soda, and grapefruit juice.
2. Add the simple syrup and stir until dissolved.
3. Add a splash of grenadine syrup for a subtle sweetness.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with edible flowers or passionfruit slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ube Coconut Milkshake
Experience the tropical flavors of the Philippines with this creamy Ube Coconut Milkshake. This sweet treat combines the vibrant purple color and nutty flavor of ube halaya (purple yam) with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ube halaya
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1/4 cup vanilla ice cream
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine ube halaya, coconut milk, and vanilla ice cream.
2. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
3. Add honey to taste and blend until well combined.
4. Pour into glasses and add ice cubes as needed.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (blending only)
Black Currant Mojito
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic mojito, featuring black currants’ sweet-tart flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz white rum
– 1 oz lime juice
– 1 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup black currant puree
– 6-8 mint leaves
– Ice
– Club soda
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, gently press the mint leaves to release their oils, then add the lime juice and simple syrup.
2. Add the white rum and black currant puree. Fill with ice and shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds.
3. Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with a lime wedge and additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed!
Enjoy your Black Currant Mojito!
Pomegranate Mint Slushie
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy slushie, perfect for hot summer days. The combination of juicy pomegranate, refreshing mint, and creamy ice is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pomegranate juice
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Sliced pomegranate seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine pomegranate juice, Greek yogurt, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add fresh mint leaves and blend until well combined.
3. Add ice cubes and blend until slushy.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or mintiness as needed.
5. Pour into glasses and garnish with sliced pomegranate seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Chilled Butterfly Pea Flower Tea
Butterfly pea flower tea is a unique and refreshing beverage that changes color depending on the temperature. This chilled version adds a delightful twist to the traditional hot brew.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup butterfly pea flowers
– 2 cups cold water
– Ice cubes
– Honey or sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the butterfly pea flowers with cold water and remove any debris.
2. Combine the cleaned flowers with 2 cups of cold water in a large pitcher.
3. Steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Strain the tea into a separate container, discarding the solids.
5. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve the chilled tea over ice and sweeten with honey or sugar to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time
Berry Lavender Lemon Drop
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of berries with the subtle flavor of lavender and a hint of citrus from lemon, perfect for warm weather gatherings. With only a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying this delightful treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine berries, lavender buds, and lemon juice.
2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and let steep for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids.
5. Whisk in sugar and simple syrup until dissolved.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Purple Sweet Potato Latte
Elevate your coffee routine with this unique and delicious Purple Sweet Potato Latte, featuring the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until soft.
3. Let the sweet potatoes cool, then peel and mash in a bowl.
4. In a blender, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, milk, brewed coffee, honey, and vanilla extract.
5. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
6. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
7. Pour into a cup and top with ice cubes.
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including baking time)
Enjoy your Purple Sweet Potato Latte!
Red Wine Sangria with Mixed Berries
This refreshing sangria is perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you want a fruity twist on traditional wine cocktails. Made with red wine, mixed berries, and a hint of citrus, this recipe is easy to prepare and serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle (750ml) red wine
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange liqueur (such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau)
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 1 lime, sliced
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine red wine, mixed berries, and granulated sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add orange liqueur and stir to combine.
3. Slice the lemon and lime into thin wedges and add to the pitcher.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve sangria over ice in glasses and garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None required, as this recipe is meant to be served chilled.
Violet Gin and Tonic
Violet Gin and Tonic Recipe
The perfect combination of floral flavors and crisp gin, this Violet Gin and Tonic is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 ounces gin with violet botanicals
- 4-6 ounces tonic water
- Slice of lemon or lime for garnish (optional)
- Fresh edible flowers (such as violas or pansies) for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Pour the gin with violet botanicals into a filled glass with ice.
- Add the tonic water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with a slice of lemon or lime, if desired, for a touch of citrus.
- For an added pop of color and whimsy, garnish with fresh edible flowers.
Cooking Time: None required! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Fig and Vanilla Infused Water
This sweet and subtle infused water is perfect for warm days or anytime you need a pick-me-up. By combining fresh figs, vanilla extract, and cold water, you’ll create a refreshing drink that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh figs, sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 4 cups cold water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the sliced figs and vanilla extract.
2. Add the cold water to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Just before serving, add ice cubes if desired.
5. Stir well and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the amount of vanilla extract to your taste.
– You can also use dried figs or a combination of fresh and dried figs.
– For a more intense flavor, let the mixture infuse for several hours or overnight.
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat this summer with these refreshing purple drink recipes! From classic lemonade to fruity smoothies and cocktails, there’s something for everyone. Try making Lavender Lemonade with Honey or Blueberry Mint Iced Tea for a sweet twist on traditional summer drinks. Or, go bold with a Black Currant Mojito or Pomegranate Mint Slushie. Whether you’re in the mood for something fruity, herbal, or bubbly, these 20 recipes are sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds.
