The dog days of summer can be a real drag. The weather is hot and humid, and there’s nothing to do but stay inside or go to the beach. But what if there was a way to beat the heat and enjoy icy cold drinks all summer long?
Here are six tips for how to enjoy refreshingly cold drinks during the whole summer.
Invest in a good quality cooler
A good cooler is a must-have for anyone who wants to enjoy cold drinks all summer long. Coolers are working hard to keep your drinks cold, so it’s important to choose one that’s up for the task. When picking a cooler, look for one with thick walls and a tight-fitting lid. This will help to keep the cold air in and the hot air out.
Additionally, you’ll want to choose a cooler that’s the right size for your needs. If you’re only planning on using it for a few drinks, a small personal cooler will do the trick. But if you’re looking to keep a large group of people hydrated, you’ll need a bigger option.
While on the go
When you’re on your way to work, or running errands, an insulated bottle or tumbler is key to keeping your drink cold. Insulated bottles and tumblers are designed to keep your drinks cold (or hot) for hours at a time. According to Iron Flask Inc., your bottle or tumbler should be able to keep your drink cold for up to 24 hours, or hot for up to 12 hours. Therefore, opt for material such as stainless steel, which is a great conductor of temperature (and also happens to be eco-friendly).
On the other hand, if you’re looking for something a little more budget-friendly, try using a standard water bottle and filling it with ice. This will help to keep your drink cold without breaking the bank.
Pre-chill your ingredients
This tip is especially important if you’re making mixed drinks. Pre-chilling your alcohol, mixers, and fruit juices will help to keep your drink cold and prevent it from getting watery. To pre-chill your alcohol, simply pop it in the freezer for a few hours (or overnight). For mixers and fruit juices, you can either store them in the fridge or put them in an ice bath.
Additionally, if you’re using fresh fruit in your drink, make sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. This will help to keep it cold and prevent it from going bad. Frozen fruit is a great way to add flavor and sweetness to your drinks without watering them down. Simply add a few pieces of frozen fruit to your drink and enjoy.
Furthermore, you can also put the glasses or cups you’ll be using in the freezer to pre-chill them. This will help to keep your drink cold and prevent it from sweating and might even add a little bit of frost to the glass.
Use larger ice cubes
Smaller ice cubes will melt quickly and water down your drink. To avoid this, use larger ice cubes (or spheres) in your drinks. These will take longer to melt and won’t water down your beverage as quickly. You can buy larger ice cubes at most supermarkets, or you can make them yourself at home using an ice cube tray. If you’re using store-bought ice cubes, make sure to store them in the freezer so they’re always cold and ready to use.
Choose the right glassware
The type of glass you use can also make a difference in how long your drink stays cold. If you’re looking for a glass that will keep your drink cold for a long time, try using a copper mug. Copper is an excellent conductor of temperature, so it will help to keep your drink cold. If you don’t have a copper mug, you can also use a glass or stainless steel tumbler.
Another great option for keeping your drink cold is to use a stemless wine glass. These glasses are designed to keep your drink cool and prevent it from sweating. Plus, they’re perfect for enjoying all sorts of summer drinks.
Add salt to your ice
If you want your ice to last even longer, try adding a pinch of salt to it. The salt will lower the freezing point of the water, which will prevent the ice from melting as quickly. If you’re making a pitcher of iced tea or lemonade, add a pinch of salt to the ice before adding your drink.
The science behind this tip is the same reason why we add salt to the water when boiling pasta. By adding salt, we’re essentially raising the boiling point of the water, which allows the pasta to cook better.
So, if you want to keep your drinks cold during the summer, you need to use a good cooler, insulated bottle, or tumbler, and add salt to your ice. Pre-chilling your ingredients will also help to keep your drink cold and prevent it from getting watery.
Follow these tips and you’ll be able to enjoy refreshingly cold drinks all summer long.