10 Awesome Non-Alcoholic Chia Seed Drink Recipes To Sip Your Way Through Summer
Thank goodness winter is over, but now summer is also fast approaching, and with it will come scorching temperatures that will soon be unbearable. As you brace yourself for the heatwave, staying hydrated and maintaining a balance of electrolytes is key. And why not improve your hydration with something more like the powerhouse of nutrition: chia seeds? These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your drinks.
Chia seeds contain soluble fibre, which is why they increase in size when soaked in water. This soluble fiber is incredibly helpful for digestion and in maintaining gut biome, which can become upset in the summer due to the heat. The omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds are also beneficial for reducing inflammation in the body, the likelihood of which increases due to high temperatures. Besides alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, you can also add chia seeds to your oatmeal, salads, and desserts.
Classic Chia Lemonade
Ingredients
1 tbsp of chia seeds
1 cup of water
Juice of one lemon
Sweetener of choice
Ice
Lemon slice for garnish
Method
Let the chia seeds soak in water for about 10 to 15 minutes until they become plump.
In another glass, combine lemon juice with the sweetener.
Add ice cubes to the lemon and sweet mixture, then pour in the soaked chia seeds along with water. You can also add soda water if desired.
Garnish the lemonade with lemon slices and serve immediately.
Chia Berry Smoothie
Ingredients
1 cup of your favourite berries
1 tbsp of chia seeds
1 frozen banana
½ cup of Greek yogurt
½ cup milk of your choice
Sweetener of your choice
Method
Blend the berries, chia seeds, frozen banana, Greek yogurt, milk, and sweetener until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
If the smoothie is thick, you can add more milk.
Serve the smoothie in glasses.
Optionally, garnish with more berries or a sprinkle of chia seeds.
Chia Iced Coffee
Ingredients
4-5 tbsp of instant coffee
1 tbsp of chia seeds
1/2 cup of milk of your choice
1 tsp of honey
A pinch of cinnamon
½ tsp of cocoa powder
Ice
Method
Combine all the ingredients in a blender to mix thoroughly.
Sprinkle some more cocoa powder and cinnamon when serving in a glass.
Chia Mint Cucumber Cooler
Ingredients
Glass of water or soda
1 tbsp of chia seeds
Juice of one lemon
Sweetener of choice
1/2 cucumber peeled and deseeded
Method
Soak the chia seeds in water for about 10 to 15 minutes until they have plumped up.
In a blender, combine lemon juice, mint leaves, sugar, water, and peeled, deseeded cucumber. Blend until you get a smooth puree.
Divide the chia seed mixture into glasses, followed by the cucumber mint puree. Top it up with some soda or water.
Stir well before serving.
Apple Ginger Chia Drink
Ingredients
1 cup of apple juice
1 tbsp of chia seeds
1 tsp of fresh ginger juice
Ice
Sliced apple for garnish
Method
Soak the chia seeds in some water or apple juice for about 10 to 15 minutes. You can either juice apples at home or just use store-bought apple juice for convenience and ease.
Add the ginger juice to this apple juice, and top it up with some more.
Add ice cubes to chill the drink, and garnish with sliced apples or ginger.
Serve instantly.
Grapefruit Agua Fresca
Ingredients
Juice of half a grapefruit
1 tbsp of chia seeds
1 tbsp of agave nectar
Ice
Water
Method
Soak the chia seeds in some water until they become plump.
Juice the grapefruit and pour it into your serving glass. Follow it up with the soaked chia seeds and the agave nectar.
Add ice and serve immediately. You can also use coconut water for a more enriching and energising taste.
