Raspberry Limeade

Limeade is a staple in the summertime! Try this sweet twist on the standard limeade with homemade raspberry puree and Lime essential oil. This sweet and tangy drink is the perfect treat on any warm summer day.

Ingredients:

Raspberry Puree:

2 cups raspberries

1/2 cup sugar or honey

1 cup water

Note: This recipe makes about 2 cups of puree and you only need to put 1-2 tablespoons into each cup. Therefore the 1/2 cup of sugar will be divided into about 20 cups of limeade. If you prefer, you could also substitute the sugar with honey or add more raspberries.

Drink:

Limes Sparkling water Lime essential oil Ice

Health Highlights:

• It can be tough to resist chilled sugary drinks, especially in the summertime. However, this raspberry limeade provides some pretty stellar health benefits that won’t leave you feeling guilty after sipping on this summertime treat.
• Raspberries- Although raspberries are often referred to as “nature’s candy,” they provide significant health benefits, especially when it comes to heart health. A report in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that foods that are rich in flavonoids, like raspberries, can lower the risk of death from heart disease. [1]
• Honey- Some use honey as a health aid for sleepless nights and insomnia, since it can lead to a rise in insulin, and release of serotonin. Our bodies have the ability to convert serotonin into melatonin, which regulates length and quality of sleep.[2]

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 1/2 cup sugar or honey, and 2 cups raspberries.
2. Cook until sugar has dissolved.
3. Cool and strain.
4. To serve, add raspberry puree (around 2 tablespoons), ice, juice of one lime, and 1-2 drops Lime essential oil to a glass. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with limes and raspberries. Enjoy!

[1] //www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/283018.php

[2] //www.medicaldaily.com/liquid-gold-7-health-benefits-honey-could-heal-your-whole-body-325932