Iced Spring Citrus Drink

Name: Iced Spring Citrus Drink
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 2 large oranges, juiced; 1 large lemon, juiced; 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger; Fresh mint leaves for garnish; 4 cups cold water; 1-2 tablespoons honey or sugar (optional); Ice cubes

Highlighted under: Celebration Seasonal Food Ideas

I absolutely love this Iced Spring Citrus Drink! The burst of citrus flavors makes it a refreshing choice for warm days. I created this drink to welcome the beautiful spring season, and it has become a favorite in our home. Combining oranges, lemons, and a hint of mint not only awakens the taste buds but also fills the air with a delightful aroma. Every sip is like a breath of fresh spring air, and I can't wait for you to try it during your next gathering!

Created by

Isolde Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-15T07:33:36.262Z

Making this Iced Spring Citrus Drink was a delightful experiment for me. After trying various combinations of citrus fruits, I found that the balance of oranges and lemons, along with fresh mint, really stands out. The secret is to use freshly squeezed juice to maximize flavor. I also enjoy adding a hint of sparkling water for a refreshing fizz that brings the entire drink to life. It’s all about creating that perfect taste that evokes the warmth of spring.

One of my favorite moments was serving this drink at a sunny backyard gathering. The vibrant colors and invigorating flavors not only visually appealed to my guests but also created conversation sparks. Everyone was curious about the unique twist from the mint, and it turns out, they couldn’t resist refilling their glasses! This drink has truly become a staple for our springtime celebrations.

Why You'll Love This Drink
Bright, citrusy flavors that refresh your palate
Sweet and tart balance perfect for any occasion
Effortless to make, yet impressive for entertaining

Perfecting the Citrus Blend

The key to an outstanding Iced Spring Citrus Drink lies in the quality of your citrus fruits. Choose ripe oranges and lemons for the best flavor profile. When juicing, ensure you extract every last drop; using a citrus juicer can help maximize the yield. If you have a particular variety of orange, like navel or blood oranges, feel free to experiment as they bring unique flavors to the drink.

Ginger adds a fragrant warmth to this citrus mix; consider using fresh ginger rather than powdered for optimal taste. Grate your ginger just before use to retain its essential oils. If you find the ginger flavor is too strong for your taste, you can reduce the amount or omit it entirely. A hint of ginger creates a lovely complexity that balances the drink's sweetness.

Serving and Enjoying

Presentation plays an important role in serving this drink. When garnishing your glasses with fresh mint leaves, give the leaves a gentle slap between your palms before adding them. This releases their essential oils, enhancing the minty aroma and flavor. Additionally, consider using clear glasses to showcase the vibrant citrus colors; it makes the drink look even more refreshing on a warm day.

If you're planning to serve this drink at a gathering, consider making a larger batch. Simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need. Keep in mind that the drink is best served fresh, but you can prepare the citrus juices a day ahead. Store your juice in the refrigerator, and mix it with the water and ice right before serving for a refreshing and invigorating drink.

Ingredients

Citrus Ingredients

2 large oranges, juiced
1 large lemon, juiced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
Fresh mint leaves for garnish

Additional Ingredients

4 cups cold water
1-2 tablespoons honey or sugar (optional)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Juice the Citrus

In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed juice from the oranges and lemon. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add honey or sugar at this stage.

Mix the Drink

Pour in the cold water and stir well to combine. Adjust sweetness to taste.

Serve

Fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour the citrus drink over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a refreshing touch.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sliced strawberries or raspberries to the drink. They add a lovely color and subtle sweetness.

Customization Ideas

This drink is very versatile, and you can experiment with different citrus fruits according to your preferences. Grapefruit, lime, or even tangelo can add interesting notes to your beverage. Feel free to mix and match or even create combinations like orange-lime or lemon-grapefruit for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

For those who prefer a sparkling drink, try substituting part of the cold water with sparkling water or club soda. This adds a refreshing fizz and elevated texture that perfectly complements the citrus. Alternatively, for a more indulgent version, mix in a splash of your favorite spirit, such as gin or vodka, to create a lively cocktail.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers of the Iced Spring Citrus Drink, it's best to store them in the refrigerator. However, the ice can dilute the drink over time, so consider removing ice cubes before storing if you want to retain the drink’s concentrated flavor. Store it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 24 hours.

For those interested in meal prepping for upcoming warm days, you can make the citrus juice in advance. Juicing extra citrus fruits means you can quickly whip up a fresh drink by mixing with cold water when you're ready. Just remember that the longer the juice sits, the more the flavors may change, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled citrus juice?

While bottled juice is convenient, freshly squeezed juice offers a brighter flavor that truly enhances this drink.

→ How can I make this drink more fizzy?

To add fizz, substitute some of the water with sparkling water or club soda.

→ Can I prepare this drink in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the juice mix and store it in the refrigerator, but add ice just before serving to keep it fresh.

→ What's a good way to serve this drink at parties?

Consider making a large batch in a punch bowl and letting guests help themselves for a festive vibe.