☀️ Ultimate Summer Elixir

Ingredients

• 4 cups cold water or sparkling water
• 1 cup fresh watermelon, cubed
• ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ lemon, thinly sliced
• ½ lime, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup, optional
• ½ cup fresh orange juice
• 1 cup ice
• Fresh berries and mint, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the fruit: Add the watermelon, strawberries, lemon, lime, and mint to a large pitcher.
2. Add the citrus: Pour in the fresh orange juice and honey or maple syrup if using.
3. Muddle gently: Lightly press the fruit and mint with a wooden spoon to release their flavors. Don’t crush the fruit completely.
4. Add water: Pour in the cold water or sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Chill: Add the ice and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
6. Serve: Pour over ice and garnish with fresh berries, mint, and a citrus slice.

✨ Optional Additions

• Add cucumber slices for an extra-refreshing flavor.
• Add a small piece of fresh ginger for a spicy kick.
• Replace some of the water with coconut water.
• For a fizzy version, use sparkling water just before serving.

Tip: For the prettiest presentation, freeze strawberries, watermelon cubes, and mint leaves into ice cubes and use them when serving.