Nothing says “summer” like a cold drink on a scorching day.

From smoothies to shakes, spritzers to slushies, there’s something for everyone here.

Cheers to a long, hot summer!

Cherry Gin Rickey

Photo: Victor Protasio

Homemade Frozen Lemonade Concentrate

This lemonade concentrate has zero twists and only two ingredients.

First, there’s lemon juice, naturally.

Second, there’s granulated sugar.

Lemonade-Concentrate

Caitlin Bensel

Mango Smoothie

We gave this mango smoothie some tang by blending in yogurt.

We bet you’ll have your own ideas.

Watermelon-Mint Agua Fresca

We sweetened this refreshing watermelon drink with mint-infused syrup.

Pink Dragon Smoothie

Caitlin Bensel

Not a watermelon fan?

you’re able to also make it with cantaloupe or honeydew.

It’s a warm-weather classic you’ll enjoy drinking over brunch or a good book.

Mango Colada

Maura McEvoy

Bonus points if you also include a sprig of mint and a lemon twist.

A generous spoonful of strawberry-rose jam and sparkling rose wine.

If homemade jam isn’t an option, store-bought strawberry jelly works, too.

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Give it a quick shake, then drop in an orange slice and frozen cranberries.

That’s literally it, besides some ice and a lime wedge for garnish.

Refreshing and sweet, it instantly transports you to a tropical island.

Watermelon-Mint Agua Fresca

Greg DuPree

Classic Margarita

Break out the tequila, it’s margarita time!

Regardless, double-check you add ice and garnish with lime slices.

Don’t forget the pineapple and maraschino garnish!

Lemon Iced Tea

Maura McEvoy

Don’t skimp on using freshly squeezed citrus juices.

It’s the difference between a so-so mojito and a great one.

Chambord Lemonade Cocktail

Stay coolandin the pink by sipping this three-ingredient lemonade-cocktail mashup.

Peach bellini

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Emboldened with five types of alcohol, this potent iced tea isnotfor guzzling.

Cucumber Spritzer

Victor Protasio

This cocktail is out to prove that vegetables can be refreshing, too.

For an alcohol-free version, just swap out the gin for more club soda.

Real Simple May 2025 Brunch, Cocktail Recipe: French 75s

Greg Dupree, Food Stylist: Emily Hall, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen

Red Wine Spritz

In the mood for something light and easy?

This red wine spritz is only four-ingredients: sweet vermouth, dry sparkling red wine, and club soda.

Cranberry Margarita

Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Rishon Hanners, Prop Stylist: Julia Bayless

Boozy Refreshing Sea Breeze Cocktail with Grapefruit and Vodka

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a margarita on the rocks with a salted rim

Chef John

Mai Tai

Antonis Achilleos

Vodka mojito garnished with mint leaves and lime

The Spruce Eats / Maxwell Cozzi

Raspberry pink lemonade Chambord cocktail recipe

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The Easiest-Ever Way to Make Frosé (Frozen Rosé) At Home

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long-island-iced-tea-recipe

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Victor Protasio

Elderflower Spritz

Greg DuPree

Red Wine Spritz

Greg DuPree