Iced Spring Citrus Drink

Name: Iced Spring Citrus Drink
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh orange juice; 1 cup fresh lemon juice; 1 cup fresh grapefruit juice; 4 cups sparkling water; Fresh mint leaves; Ice cubes; Orange slices for garnish; Lemon slices for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Inspiration

I love whipping up this Iced Spring Citrus Drink to celebrate the arrival of spring. The vibrant colors and refreshing flavors of citrus make it a delightful pick-me-up. I usually combine freshly squeezed juices, sparkling water, and a hint of mint for extra freshness. It’s the perfect way to rejuvenate after a long day or to impress guests at a gathering. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare that I find myself serving it frequently. The anticipation of sipping this drink is truly unmatched!

Created by

Tamsyn Calder

Last updated on 2026-02-10T19:55:36.752Z

Every spring, I look forward to crafting my refreshing Iced Spring Citrus Drink. It marries the sweetness of oranges, the tartness of lemons, and the zest of grapefruits. I recently tried elevating the flavor by muddling fresh mint leaves directly into the drink. This small step added a fragrant layer to the citrus medley that was simply irresistible!

Experimenting with different citrus combinations has also been a joy. I've found that using blood oranges for their deep color not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a unique sweetness. Serving this drink over ice with a mint sprig transforms it into a beautiful centerpiece for any table!

Why You'll Love This Drink
Bright and refreshing citrus flavors that awaken your senses
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for any occasion
A visually stunning drink that's sure to impress

Unlocking Citrus Flavor

The foundation of this Iced Spring Citrus Drink lies in the freshness of your ingredients. Opt for organic citrus fruits whenever possible to ensure a vibrant flavor profile. Different varieties of oranges can subtly affect the sweetness level of the drink; for instance, Valencia oranges are superbly juicy. Consider mixing blood oranges with navel oranges for a visually stunning drink that boasts an array of flavors, from sweet to slightly tart.

When juicing your citrus fruits, be sure to use a manual juicer or a reamer for maximum extraction. You'll want to strain the juices to eliminate pulp and seeds, giving your beverage a smooth texture. Freshly squeezed juice not only enhances flavor but also elevates the overall aesthetic of your drink, allowing the colors to shine through when served.

Perfectly Balancing Flavors

To create a delightful equilibrium in your drink, pay attention to the ratios of sweet to sour. The orange juice's sweetness is beautifully complemented by the tartness of lemon juice, while the grapefruit juice adds a slight bitterness that rounds out the flavors. If you find your drink too tart, feel free to adjust by adding a splash of simple syrup or a natural sweetener such as agave. Start with a small amount; it's easier to add sweetness than to tone it down.

Another key element is the sparkling water, which should be added last to maintain its signature fizz. Pour it in gently and mix with a light hand to avoid losing the effervescence. Ensure the sparkling water is chilled beforehand, and consider using flavored sparkling waters for a unique twist, such as lemon or lime, which can add another layer of freshness to your drink.

Garnishing and Serving Tips

Garnishing this drink not only enhances its appearance but also infuses additional aroma and flavor. For a more festive look, try freezing orange or lemon slices in advance and using them as ice cubes. This not only keeps the drink cold without diluting it but also adds a beautiful touch to each glass. Fresh mint leaves are an essential complement; gently slap them before adding to release their essential oils, amplifying the aromatic experience.

For gatherings, consider preparing a larger batch in advance. Combine the juices and sparkling water in a pitcher shortly before serving, allowing flavors to meld without losing fizz. If you're making it for yourself, you can also store any leftover juice mixture in an airtight container for up to 24 hours; however, it’s best when served fresh! Just remember to add the sparkling water just before you pour it over ice to keep the drink lively.

Ingredients

For the Iced Spring Citrus Drink

2 cups fresh orange juice
1 cup fresh lemon juice
1 cup fresh grapefruit juice
4 cups sparkling water
Fresh mint leaves
Ice cubes
Orange slices for garnish
Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions

Combine Juices

In a large pitcher, mix the fresh orange juice, lemon juice, and grapefruit juice together. Stir well to combine.

Add Sparkling Water

Slowly pour in the sparkling water to maintain its fizziness. Stir gently to combine without losing the bubbles.

Muddle Mint

In individual glasses, add a few mint leaves. Gently muddle them using a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their oils.

Serve Over Ice

Fill each glass with ice cubes and pour the citrus drink over the top. Garnish with orange and lemon slices, and add a sprig of mint.

Pro Tips

For added sweetness, feel free to adjust the quantity of fruit juice or add a splash of simple syrup to taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

Should you have trouble finding fresh oranges, lemons, or grapefruits, bottled 100% juice can be a quick alternative, though it may lack the brightness of freshly squeezed. Look for juices that specify no added sugars or artificial ingredients for the best flavor. Citrus blends, like a lemon-lime combo, can also work well in a pinch and add an interesting twist.

For a less citrusy option, consider substituting the grapefruit juice with pomegranate juice for a sweeter profile and a rich color. You can also experiment with other fruit juices like pineapple or apple, but be cautious of balancing the sweetness they provide, as these tend to be higher in sugar.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This refreshing drink is perfect for making ahead of time, particularly if you’re hosting guests. Prepare the juice mixture, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to marry beautifully while keeping it ready for serving without the fuss at the last minute.

However, avoid adding sparkling water until you’re ready to serve. This will ensure maximum fizziness and enjoyment. If planning to prepare in larger quantities, consider using a punch bowl for presentation, garnishing the entire bowl with mint, orange, and lemon slices so guests can help themselves. It adds a lovely aesthetic and minimizes the need for individual preparation.

Creative Variations

Feel free to innovate with this base recipe! Infusing your sparkling water with herbs like basil or thyme can give a surprising depth to the drink. Simply add them to your pitcher alongside the juices, allowing the flavors to intermingle for about 10-15 minutes before serving. The herbal notes can create a delightful contrast to the citrus.

You might also consider adding a splash of flavored syrups, such as elderflower or lavender, to introduce floral notes that work beautifully with the citrus. Additionally, for a fun and festive twist, pour the drink into a blended ice version – simply blend the juice mixture with ice until icy and slushy for a refreshing and playful take on your Iced Spring Citrus Drink.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bottled citrus juices?

While fresh juice yields the best flavor, bottled varieties can work in a pinch, but taste may vary.

→ How can I prepare this drink in advance?

You can juice the fruits and refrigerate them, then mix with sparkling water just before serving to keep it fizzy.

→ What can I substitute if I have no grapefruit?

You can replace grapefruit juice with more orange or lemon juice for a sweeter drink.

→ Is it possible to make this drink non-alcoholic?

Absolutely! This recipe is already non-alcoholic and perfect for all ages.