Fruit Sweetened Ice

We’re entering a beautiful season of fresh, gorgeous fruits and vegetables. Basil, leafy greens, lemons, and all kinds of berries are fresher than I’ve seen them. They are jumping off the shelves and it’s the season to enjoy them. It’s time to eat right and eat well.

I put pretty parsley, cauliflower and cherry tomatoes to good use earlier this week. It’s now time for something on the sweeter side. Fruit sweetened ice!

However simple, water with a little fruit really is the way to brighten up your routine and enjoy something special. Spring parties, showers and luncheons are all serving sweet lemonades and sodas. Try this fabulously healthy alternative! Just a few ingredients and this ice transforms plain water into a flavorful, refreshing beverage that is totally guilt-free.

It’s true you could add sliced fruit and be done. Ice is better. Ice is chilly and more fragrant. Colors are vibrate and the textures and hues transform as the ice melts and flawlessly infuses the water.

Here are three flavor creations for your sampling:

Blackberry Mint. One word: intoxicating. Blackberry and mint will have you smitten. It’s a major sugar craving buster. Pour a large glass when the cravings start and you’ll forget about binging on unnecessary calories in an instant.

Raspberry Lemon: Vibrant pink gives this drink amazing flavor and color for baby showers and summer parties. Lighten up your meal and improve your digestion with the qualities of lemon. Raspberries sweeten the deal.

Strawberry Basil: This drink is about sophistication. It’s a curious combination with the perfect edge. It’s a pure celebration of summer fare with a gentle, cleansing power that leaves you completely rejuvenated!

This sweet ice isn’t just for parties or that afternoon treat. Flavored ice can also be used to brighten up those morning smoothies in a pinch! Have “fresh” berries and herbs to add to drinks or smoothies by freezing them ahead of time. Fragrant ingredients like mint and basil are really delicious touches to any beverage. Serve this naturally sweet ice with sparkling water for even more flair. Yes, we’re ready for summer!

Fruit Sweetened Ice
Print Recipe

Blackberry Mint:
1/2 cup Blackberries
3 Tablespoons Chopped Fresh Mint
1 Tablespoon Xylitol or Erythritol
1 2/3 cup Filtered Water

Raspberry Lemon:
1/2 cup Raspberries
1/3 cup quartered Lemons Slices
1 Tablespoon Xylitol or Erythritol
1 1/2 cup Filtered Water

Strawberry Basil:
1/2 cup Sliced Strawberries
3 Tablespoons Chopped Fresh Basil
1 Tablespoon Xylitol or Erythritol
1 2/3 cup Filtered Water

Place ingredients in a bowl and gently mash with a fork. Pour water over the mixture and stir. Gently pour into an ice tray and allow to freeze for 2 hours until frozen. Each recipe yields about one ice cube tray.