Are you dreaming of a tropical getaway but stuck at home? Bring the beach to your kitchen with this incredibly easy and refreshing Ocean Water Drink recipe! This vibrant blue beverage is perfect for hot summer days, kids' parties, or any occasion where you need a burst of fruity deliciousness. It's visually stunning, incredibly easy to make, and tastes like a vacation in a glass. Forget expensive store-bought versions; this homemade recipe lets you control the sweetness and ingredients for a truly customizable treat. This is one of those quick dinner ideas that's perfect for when you're short on time but craving something delicious and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
- 1 (6-ounce) can frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
- 4 cups cold water
- 1/2 teaspoon blue food coloring (gel or liquid)
- Optional: Whipped cream, maraschino cherries, gummy candies for garnish
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Concentrates
Start by thawing your frozen lemonade and orange juice concentrates completely. This ensures they mix smoothly without icy chunks.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large pitcher, combine the thawed lemonade concentrate, thawed orange juice concentrate, and cold water. Stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed and the concentrate is fully dissolved.
Step 3: Add the Color
Gently stir in the blue food coloring. Start with a small amount and add more until you reach your desired shade of blue. Remember, a little goes a long way! It's always easier to add more than to take it away.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate the Ocean Water drink for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the drink to chill thoroughly. Serve over ice in tall glasses.
Garnish and Variations:
Get creative with your garnish! A dollop of whipped cream, a bright maraschino cherry, or a few gummy candies can transform this simple drink into a beautiful and festive beverage.
Here are some fun variations to try:
- Tropical Twist: Add a splash of pineapple juice or coconut cream for a more tropical flavor profile.
- Berry Blast: Blend in some fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist and a beautiful color change.
- Sparkling Ocean: Add some sparkling water or club soda for a bubbly and refreshing twist.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Use good quality concentrates: The better the quality of your concentrates, the better your drink will taste.
- Don't over-mix: Over-mixing can make the drink frothy. Gentle stirring is key.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, use less concentrate or add a little more water.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific brands of concentrate used. This recipe makes roughly 6 servings.
- Calories: Around 100-150 per serving
- Sugar: Moderately high due to the juice concentrates
- Fat: Very low
This Ocean Water Drink recipe is a delightful and easy homemade treat, perfect for any occasion. It's a healthy alternative to sugary sodas and a fun way to cool down on a warm day. Enjoy!