Lemonades, limeades, fizzy orangeades – summertime and citrus go hand-in hand.
Start with the basic template: citrus juice, sugar, and water. Then switch it up a bit. How about Meyer lemon or Key lime juices?
Next get creative with water and add some soda water. But think outside of the box and use a flavored soda water – think La Croix or flavored Perrier like fizzy blackberry, sparkling peach, or effervescent blood orange.
Instead of making it with traditional cane sugar, sweeten it with organic agave nectar, a unique honey variety like wildflower or buckwheat, or try a touch of maple syrup.
You can also change up the ice. Have you heard about the fun butterfly pea tea? It changes color when you mix it with citrus juices. Yes, you can make ice cubes with this for a magical experience that kids of all ages will love! Or craft a delicious drink like a Honey Butterfly Tea Soda!
And for adults, a splash of your favorite spirit will snazz up that drink – vodka, gin, tequila, or rum. Who’s ready for a citrusy summer cocktail – I know I am! –Kathy
Photo by Kathy Casey Food Studios – Liquid Kitchen for The National Honey Board
Honey Butterfly Tea Soda
The sweet and tart honey citrus elixir adds flavor and body to this refreshing drink. The colorful brilliant blue butterfly pea tea creates a magical experience when mixed in!
Makes 1 drink
2 oz Honey Citrus Elixir (recipe follows)
2 oz soda water, chilled
1 1/2 oz brewed Butterfly Pea Tea, chilled
Garnish: lemon wheel
Measure the Honey Citrus Elixir into a tall glass. Fill with ice, then add the soda water and top with the tea.
Garnish with lemon wheel.
Honey Citrus Elixir
Makes 2 cups
1 tablespoon loose Jasmine tea
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1/2 cup boiling water
3/4 cup orange blossom honey
1 cup fresh lemon juice
Place the tea, ginger and boiling water in a pitcher. Let steep for 15 minutes then strain. Add the honey– stir and let cool to room temperature. Then stir in the lemon juice and refrigerate.
Recipe by Kathy Casey Food Studios – Liquid Kitchen for The National Honey Board
