By Esther Lerman Freeman | Contributing Writer
As the summer approaches and our thirst increases, many of us enjoy refreshing summertime drinks like juice, kombucha and carbonated drinks that come in recyclable, refundable cans and bottles. There are also some drinks we can make in quart or half gallon bottles or pitchers that produce zero waste (other than compost). No need for recycling and we can save money, too. Here are some tips for making drinks at home.
Iced Tea
Make several jars of iced tea to keep on hand in the fridge at all times. I enjoy having a black tea, a green tea and an herbal tea at the ready. As soon as one bottle is finished, you can rinse it and enjoy steeping more tea again.
- Start with three quart-sized bottles and place a few single tea bags in each one (depending on how strong you want your tea).
- Then, pour a cup of boiling water over each and let them steep for as long as suggested for the tea (usually 3-5 minutes for black tea, 2-3 minutes for green tea, and 3-5 minutes for herbal tea.) Remove the tea bags.
- Add whatever you like. Honey, maple syrup, and brown sugar are good sweeteners or just enjoy it unsweetened. You may also squeeze a lime or lemon into the mix.
- Stir well.
- Add ice to cool.
Infused Water
Hotels often have infused waters in their lobby for us to enjoy, but we can treat ourselves easily right at home. Flavored water is lovely, inexpensive, and produces no waste.
- Add a few cucumber slices, citrus slices, or any fresh fruits to a pitcher of water.
- Let the water infuse for at least 4 hours.
- Strain the water to remove any chunks.
- Add ice and enjoy.
Ginger Drink
If you don’t mind a few more minutes of prep time, a sweet and spicy ginger drink might hit the spot. Drink it over ice or use more ginger to use it as a syrup.
- Peel a small piece of fresh ginger and slice it.
- Simmer it in a cup or two of water for 20-30 minutes.
- Add sweetener of your choice.
- Let cool.
- If you like, add fruit to infuse or try hibiscus flowers.
Happy summer. I’ll be back with more eco-friendly tips next month.
Esther Lerman Freeman is a certified Master Recycler and Concordia resident