23 Apr Perfectly Refreshing Springtime Drinks
Springtime is blossoming at Hickory Valley Retirement in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and what better way to embrace the season than with a selection of fun, healthy, and inspired drink recipes? As the flowers bloom and the temperatures rise, our residents and their families love to gather for cheerful celebrations. At Hickory Valley, we emphasize joy and wellness in every aspect of our community life, including what we eat and drink. That’s why we’ve put together these delightful spring drink recipes that are perfect for enjoying the beauty of the season while focusing on health and enjoyment.
1. Hickory Valley Honey Lemon Ginger Tea
Ingredients:
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon of raw honey (local if possible)
Juice of 1 large lemon
4 cups of boiling water
Instructions:
Place the ginger slices in a teapot or large heat-proof pitcher.
Add the lemon juice and honey.
Pour boiling water over the mixture and stir to combine.
Let the tea steep for about 10-15 minutes.
Strain into cups or over ice if preferred, and enjoy!
This tea is not only soothing and delicious but also a fantastic way to boost your immune system during the seasonal change. The ginger adds a nice kick that is sure to awaken your senses!
2. Chattanooga Minty Cucumber Water
Ingredients:
1 cucumber, thinly sliced
10 fresh mint leaves
Ice
Cold water
Instructions:
In a large pitcher, layer the cucumber slices and mint leaves with ice.
Fill the pitcher with cold water.
Let it infuse for at least an hour in the refrigerator.
Serve in glasses garnished with extra mint leaves.
This incredibly refreshing water is perfect for hydration on those warm spring days. It’s a simple, zero-calorie drink that keeps you cool and promotes healthy skin.
3. Berry Blast Smoothie
Ingredients:
½ cup fresh strawberries, hulled
½ cup fresh blueberries
½ banana
1 cup almond milk
1 tablespoon flax seeds
Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender.
Blend on high until smooth.
Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately for a refreshing and nutritious treat.
Loaded with antioxidants and omega-3s from the flax seeds, this smoothie is a brilliant way to start your morning or recharge after a stroll around our beautiful Hickory Valley grounds.
4. Southern Sparkling Peach Iced Tea
Ingredients:
4 black tea bags
1 fresh peach, sliced
¼ cup of peach nectar
Fresh mint leaves
Sparkling water
Instructions:
Brew the tea bags in 4 cups of boiling water, according to package instructions.
Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool.
In a pitcher, combine the brewed tea, peach slices, peach nectar, and a handful of mint leaves.
Refrigerate until chilled.
Serve over ice, topped with a splash of sparkling water.
This drink captures the essence of a Southern spring and offers a festive twist on traditional iced tea. The peach flavors are an excellent nod to our local Tennessee agriculture.
We invite you to try these delightful drinks this Spring, whether you’re lounging by the garden or hosting a family get-together. Cheers to a season of health, happiness, and community at Hickory Valley Retirement!