Mocktails are not just for celebratory events anymore!
They can be enjoyed all summer long!
What is your favorite mocktail for kids/teens?
One of my favorites is a Lemon Blueberry mocktail! So easy to make and tastes delicious, especially with a hint of mint sprigs!
First, start with your favorite organic lemonade (yes it can be store bought). I have seen great selections and prices in local as well as in major supermarket chains.
If you decide to make homemade lemonade for the equivalent of 32oz of bottled lemonade, what you will need is:
1) Filtered water- 4, 8oz cups
2) 2 Lemons (preferably organic, if not then please wash the lemon in vinegar and salt for 5-10 minutes). This will remove a great deal of pesticides. Ironic, considering lemons themselves are used to clean and detox many other foods and even surfaces.
3) Sugar or stevia to sweeten. You can also use monk fruit liquid extract. Start will less and you can always add more, or less for a tarter taste.
Mix all ingredients and refrigerate for up to a week.
I add the mocktail ingredients shortly before serving. This ensures the look and taste is as summery and fresh as possible.
For the Mocktail I add:
Fresh organic blueberries (add approximately 1/4 scoop of blueberries to the bottom of a glass. Mason jars and/or party style martini glasses look great and are fun for kids/teens to hold. Depending on the age and comfort level, you can substitute hard plastic for glass or colored cups from stores like Amazing Savings, Target and Amazon. Of course you can always shop at your local housewares store.
Ace Hardware in nearby Suffern has many great, unique options. https://www.acehardware.com/store-details/15796
You can add sugar to the initial lemonade mixture (if homemade) or add when you are pouring into individual cups. I love the combination of tart and sweet and I am confident that kids and teens will love the look and taste as well.
Add a couple of springs of mint, either in the glass, for a minty taste accent or around the top for garnish.
Add striped straws for a summery feel or sip it straight! Adults will love these Lemonade Mocktails too!
A few great, LOCAL farmers markets in NW Bergen County to buy the above ingredients (and much more) include:
Ramsey Farmer's Market- Every Sunday from 9am to 2pm Ramsey Farmers Market
Secor Farms- (Mahwah, NJ) Home - Secor Farms