Nothing says summer quite like a refreshing drink enjoyed on a warm afternoon. In this 2026 Summer Sips collection, you’ll learn simple techniques for muddling fresh fruit and herbs, making homemade flavored syrups, and building delicious mocktails using seasonal ingredients. From bright citrus and juicy berries to fragrant herbs and sparkling finishes, these recipes are packed with fresh flavors that help you stay hydrated while making the most of summer’s harvest. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, these vibrant beverages are an easy way to elevate your everyday hydration.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- To make agave thyme syrup, combine agave, water, and thyme in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until combined. Strain out thyme.
- Add lemon slices, strawberries, thyme, and agave syrup to 32-ounce deli container or mason jar. Muddle.
- Top with ice, cold water, and coconut water.
- Seal with a tight-fitting lid and shake. Remove lid.
- Garnish with additional thyme, lemon slices, and strawberries.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Muddle the peach slices in the bottom of a shaker for about 30 seconds, just until they release their juice.
- Add the basil leaves and gently muddle for another 5-10 seconds.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a small bowl or measuring cup, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the pulp.
- Pour the strained liquid back into the shaker, add the honey syrup and lime juice, and stir to combine.
- Fill a glass with ice, pour in the peach mixture, and top with sparkling water or club soda. 6. Garnish with a fresh basil leaf.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Steep the lavender tea bag in ½ cup of hot water for 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the tea bag and allow the tea to cool slightly.
- In a shaker or sturdy glass, muddle the fresh blueberries with the honey until the berries release their juices.
- Add the cooled lavender tea and fresh lemon juice, then stir or shake gently to combine.
- Fill a serving glass with ice and strain the mixture over the ice.
- Top with the ginger beer and stir gently.
- Garnish with a lemon wheel, a few fresh blueberries, and a sprig of fresh lavender.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- To make honey syrup, combine honey and water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until combined.
- Fill a wine glass with ice.
- Add blood orange juice, honey simple syrup, and lemon juice.
- Stir.
- Top with sparkling water.
- Garnish with a blood orange slice and a rosemary sprig.