Liquid Joy Mocktail Recipes

Here are two fun and hydrating mocktails, along with their health benefits
and how they work to put the brakes on dehydrating at your event:

Watermelon Mint Bliss
Serves (6) 4 oz. glasses

Ingredients:
● 2 cups of watermelon, cubed and seeds removed
● 1 cup of coconut water
● 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
● 1 bunch of fresh mint leaves
● Ice cubes

Preparation:

1. Blend the watermelon cubes until smooth.
2. Add the coconut water, lime juice, and a few mint leaves to the blender.
3. Blend again until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a glass over ice cubes.
5. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

Health Benefits and Hydration:

• Watermelon: Packed with water (about 92% of its weight), watermelon
  helps keep you hydrated and provides vitamins A, and C, and antioxidants
  like lycopene.

• Coconut Water: Known as nature’s sports drink, coconut water is rich in
  electrolytes like potassium, which are essential for maintaining proper
  hydration levels.

• Mint: Adds a refreshing flavor and can aid in digestion.

This mocktail works for hydration by combining the high water content of
watermelon with the electrolyte-rich coconut water, making it both
refreshing and hydrating.

Cucumber Lime Spritzer
Serves (4) 4 oz. glasses

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup of fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon of agave syrup
• 2 cups of sparkling water
• Ice cubes
• Lime slices and cucumber slices for garnish

Preparation

1. In a large pitcher, combine cucumber slices and freshly squeezed lime
   juice.
2. Add agave syrup and mix well.
3. Pour in sparkling water and stir gently.
4. Serve in glasses over ice cubes.
5. Garnish with additional lime and cucumber slices.

Health Benefits and Hydration:

• Cucumber: Composed of about 95% water, cucumbers are excellent for
  hydration and provide vitamins K and B, as well as antioxidants.
• Lime: High in vitamin C, limes boost your immune system and add a
  zesty flavor that encourages you to drink more.
• Sparkling Water: Adds a bubbly twist without any added sugars or
  calories, helping to keep you hydrated.

This mocktail is hydrating because it leverages the high water content of
cucumbers and the refreshing citrus flavor of lime, combined with the
effervescence of sparkling water, making it an enjoyable drink that
encourages fluid intake.

For a touch of sweetness try one of these options:
Here are some sweeteners you can try with making any of your mocktail
recipes that will not hinder your hydration:

1. Honey (Chef’s suggestion – your local, raw, organic, unfiltered honey)

• Benefits: Natural sweetener with antioxidants and antimicrobial
  properties.
• Hydration Impact: Contains water and has a low glycemic index, helping
  maintain stable energy levels and hydration.

2. Agave Syrup

• Benefits: Lower glycemic index than regular sugar, suitable for those
  managing blood sugar levels.

• Hydration Impact: Does not cause rapid blood sugar spikes, which can
  lead to dehydration.

3. Maple Syrup

• Benefits: Contains minerals like manganese and zinc, and has a unique
  flavor profile.
• Hydration Impact: Less processed than regular sugar, with a moderate
  glycemic index, making it a good option for maintaining hydration.

4. Stevia

• Benefits: Zero-calorie natural sweetener derived from the stevia plant.
• Hydration Impact: Does not raise blood sugar levels and has no
  dehydrating effects, making it an excellent choice for hydration.

5. Coconut Sugar

• Benefits: Contains small amounts of nutrients like iron, zinc, calcium,
  and potassium.
• Hydration Impact: Has a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar,
  promoting stable hydration.

6. Erythritol

• Benefits: Sugar alcohol contains fewer calories and does not raise blood
  sugar levels.
• Hydration Impact: Does not cause gastrointestinal distress like other
  sugar alcohols and maintains hydration well.

These sweeteners can be used to enhance the flavor of your mocktails
without negatively affecting hydration, allowing your guests to enjoy
delicious and refreshing drinks.

Chef Monica’s Disclaimer per INsight Magazine:
Please note that I am not a physician, and the information provided in these recipes and
their nutritional benefits is for general informational purposes only. Always consult with
your doctor or healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or health routine.
Your physician knows your health needs best and can provide personalized advice.

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