Orange Oasis

This refreshing orange mint elixir is the perfect way to beat the summer heat. It's light, fruity, and minty, with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, it's easy to make and can be tailored to your liking. Serve it chilled over ice for a perfect thirst-quencher.

This recipe has its roots in the Middle East, where oranges and mint are common ingredients in refreshing drinks. In fact, the combination of orange and mint is so popular that it's even found in traditional Persian cuisine. The original recipe for this drink was likely made with fresh orange juice, but over time, people began using whole oranges, which gave the drink a more intense flavor and aroma. Today, this drink is enjoyed all over the world and is especially popular in the Middle East and North Africa.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 0 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4 oranges
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup honey
• 4 cups water

Instructions

1. Peel and segment the oranges, removing any seeds.
2. In a blender, combine the orange segments, mint leaves, honey, and water.
3. Blend until smooth and frothy.
4. Serve chilled, over ice if desired.

Why It Works

• The combination of orange and mint is a classic for a reason. The bright, citrusy flavor of the oranges pairs perfectly with the cool, refreshing taste of the mint.
• Using whole oranges gives the drink a more intense flavor and aroma than using just orange juice.
• The honey adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance out the tartness of the oranges.
• The water helps to thin out the drink and make it more refreshing.