5 Healthy Summer Drinks | {Shelbie}

Things that define my summers: the outdoors, getting a tan, traveling, hanging out with friends and family, and (let's be honest!) drinking. I try to change up my drinking habits from season to season. This summer, I've made it my personal mission to try new cocktails whenever I get the opportunity. The summer heat usually makes me crave fresh and fruity drinks. So today, I wanted to share with you my top 5 favorite healthy summer drinks to try this summer!


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Cucumber & Melon White Sangria
Recipe from EatingWell

Lately I've been absolutely obsessed with cucumber flavored-everything! This recipe isn't only refreshing, but also healthy. For those of you trying to watch your summer figure, this drink would be a great option.

INGREDIENTS
1 750-mL bottle Gewürztraminer, dry Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc
1/2 cup dry vermouth
2 cups diced honeydew melon
1 cup diced cucumber
1/2 cup torn fresh basil leaves
1 cup chilled plain seltzer
Ice

MAKE IT!
Combine wine, vermouth, melon, cucumber and basil in a large pitcher. Refrigerate until cold, about 4 hours. Just before serving, stir in the seltzer. Serve over ice.


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Strawberry Margarita Punch
Recipe from Dinners, Dishes & Desserts

I've always loved everything strawberry and, of course, everything margarita-related! Margaritas in the summer are definitely a staple of mine. This fun punch will definitely "punch" you in the taste buds—in a good way! Although this might not be the healthiest drink on this list, I had to add it because it's perfect for summer!

INGREDIENTS
8 oz frozen strawberries
1 can frozen limeade concentrate—thawed
1 cup orange juice
3/4 cup tequila
1/4 cup triple sec
1 bottle sweet sparkling wine (strawberry moscato is preferable, if you can find it)

MAKE IT!
With a blender, blend together strawberries, thawed limeade and orange juice until smooth. Pour into a large pitcher. Add tequila and triple sec. Mix well. Refrigerate until cold. Pour in sparkling wine to serve. Serve over ice.


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The Skinnygirl American Virgin
Recipe from Food.com

I used to be an avid Real Housewives of New York fan, so I've always kept up with Bethany Frankel. She is the creator of Skinnygirl cocktails. I think this drink is a must-try!

INGREDIENTS
2 ounces peach vodka
2 ounces club soda
splash orange juice
splash lemonade

MAKE IT!
Well, this one is simple. Mix it all together, add ice and garnish with a lemon wedge.


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Ruby-Red Grapefruit Cocktail
Recipe from EatingWell

Some people think grapefruit is an acquired taste, and that's fine with me—more for the rest of us! This fun-colored drink is so bright and vibrant—it could definitely be dressed up for parties. Plus, who doesn't love pretty drinks?

INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 cups red or pink grapefruit juice, preferably fresh-squeezed
1 1/2 cups plain seltzer
1/2 cup gin
2 tablespoons Campari
Ice cubes
Grapefruit wedges or slices for garnish

MAKE IT!
Stir grapefruit juice, seltzer, gin and Campari together in a pitcher. Pour over ice. Garnish with grapefruit, if desired.


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Skinny Asian Mojito
Recipe from Shape

This mojito is fresh, crisp, and from what I've heard, addicting! Keep your waist small with this naturally sweet drink. I haven't tried this one yet, but I plan to soon!

INGREDIENTS
2 ounces TY KU Sake
Fresh mint
1 splash citrus seltzer
1 squeeze citrus (lemon, lime, or orange)

MAKE IT!
Combine first 3 ingredients in a glass over ice and add a squeeze of citrus.

I hope you all have a healthy, fruity and refreshing rest of the summer. Cheers!


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