Looking for a healthy and delicious way to cool down this summer? This homemade refreshing drink made with cherries, citrus, ginger, basil, mint, and maple syrup is exactly what you need. It’s vibrant, naturally sweetened, and full of fresh flavors — perfect for warm days or anytime you want something energizing without alcohol.

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Health Benefits of the Ingredients

Cherries (450 g)

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and potassium. They help reduce inflammation and add a natural sweetness and beautiful red color to the drink.

Lime (1 whole fruit)

Lime juice adds a zesty, tangy brightness. It’s great for digestion and gives the drink a refreshing kick.

Orange (1/2 fruit)

Orange balances the lime with its mellow sweetness and is packed with vitamin C and hydration.

Fresh Ginger (15 g)

Ginger is invigorating, with anti-inflammatory and digestion-boosting properties. It gives the drink a warming, spicy twist.

Fresh Basil (10 g)

Basil adds an unexpected herbal depth with a peppery edge that pairs beautifully with the fruit.

Fresh Mint (10 g)

Mint is the ultimate cooling herb — it brings freshness and aids in digestion, perfect for hot days.

Maple Syrup (35 g)

A natural sweetener with a caramel-like note. It ties all the flavors together without using refined sugar.

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The Recipe (Makes 2–3 Glasses)

Ingredients

• 450 g fresh cherries, pitted
• Juice of 1 lime
• Juice of 1/2 orange
• 15 g fresh ginger, grated
• 10 g fresh basil leaves
• 10 g fresh mint leaves
• 35 g (about 2 tbsp) maple syrup
• 400 ml cold water or sparkling water
• Ice cubes

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients
   Pit the cherries. Juice the lime and half the orange. Grate the ginger. Roughly chop the basil and mint.
2. Blend
   In a blender, combine cherries, citrus juice, ginger, herbs, and maple syrup. Blend until smooth.
3. Strain (Optional)
   For a smoother drink, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
4. Add water
   Mix in cold still or sparkling water. Adjust quantity based on your taste preference.
5. Serve chilled
   Pour into glasses with ice cubes. Garnish with mint or basil leaves and enjoy!

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Calories & Nutrition Info (Approximate)

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories
Cherries	450 g	~270 kcal
Lime juice	1 lime	~10 kcal
Orange juice	1/2 orange	~30 kcal
Ginger	15 g	~10 kcal
Basil (fresh)	10 g	~2 kcal
Mint (fresh)	10 g	~2 kcal
Maple syrup	35 g	~120 kcal
Total (no water)	—	~444 kcal

Per serving (1/3 of the recipe): ~148 kcal
Low in fat – Mostly carbs from fruit and natural sugars.

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Tips & Variations

Optional Add-Ins

• Add strawberries or raspberries for extra berry flavor.
• Use cold green tea instead of water for added antioxidants.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bold, spicy kick.

Pro Tip

Let the drink chill in the fridge for 1 hour before serving — this allows the flavors from the herbs and ginger to fully infuse.

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Conclusion

This cherry, citrus, ginger, and herb drink is more than just a thirst-quencher — it’s a powerhouse of flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re relaxing at home or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers freshness in every sip. Try it out and let the natural ingredients do their magic!