Fresh Litchi & Mint Cooler
A bright, refreshing summer drink that captures the floral sweetness of fresh litchis paired with cool garden mint. A squeeze of lime balances the natural fruit sugars, making every sip crisp and revitalizing. Ready in 10 minutes with just a handful of ingredients.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~5 min
Prep the litchis.
1.Peel 400g fresh litchis and remove the seeds.2.Collect all the fruit flesh in a bowl, discarding any bruised pieces.3.Keep 4-5 whole litchi pieces aside for garnish if you like. - mix · ~2 min
Blend everything together.
1.Add the litchi flesh, mint leaves, lime juice, sugar, and a pinch of black salt to the blender jar.2.Pour in 2 cups chilled water.3.Blend on high speed until perfectly smooth and no mint flecks remain (about 60 seconds).TIPBlend until silky — the litchi fibre should fully break down. Pulse a few extra seconds if needed. - prep · ~2 min
Strain the cooler.
1.Place a fine mesh strainer over a large pitcher.2.Pour the blended mixture through the strainer.3.Use a spoon to gently press the pulp and extract every last drop of juice. Discard the leftover fibre.TIPDon't skip straining — it removes the grit from mint stems and gives the drink a smooth, elegant mouthfeel. - assemble · ~2 min
Assemble and serve the drinks.
1.Fill four glasses halfway with ice cubes.2.Pour the strained litchi-mint cooler evenly into each glass.3.Garnish with reserved litchi pieces and a small sprig of fresh mint.4.Serve immediately while frosty cold.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use fully ripe, fragrant litchis for the most intense natural sweetness and floral aroma.
- 2Blend the mint leaves with the litchi flesh, not just the stems, to avoid a bitter aftertaste.
- 3Chill the water and glasses beforehand so the cooler stays cold without excessive ice dilution.
- 4Taste the blended mixture before straining and adjust sugar or lime juice to your preference.
- 5For a deeper flavor, let the strained juice sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving to let the mint infuse further.
- 6If you don't have black salt, a tiny pinch of regular salt brightens the sweetness similarly.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy kick
Add a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger (peeled) or 1/2 a green chili to the blender for a warm, spicy undertow that contrasts the sweet litchi. Strain as usual.
herb swapHerb swap
Replace mint with fresh basil or lemongrass (1 stalk, bruised) for a different aromatic profile. Basil gives anise-like notes; lemongrass adds citrusy brightness.
fizzy versionFizzy version
Replace half the water with chilled soda water or sparkling water after blending. Pour over ice for a lively, bubbly cooler.
creamy coolerCreamy cooler
Swap 1/2 cup of water for 1/2 cup chilled coconut milk for a tropical, creamy twist that pairs beautifully with litchi.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamin C
Fresh litchis are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and collagen production.
Hydrating and Refreshing
The high water content of litchis and added chilled water make this a hydrating drink, ideal for hot weather.
Digestive Aid
Mint is traditionally used to soothe the stomach and aid digestion, making this cooler a good post-meal refreshment.
Low in Added Sugar
The natural sweetness of ripe litchis means you need very little added sugar—only 1 tablespoon for the whole batch.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but drain canned litchis well and skip the added sugar, as they're often packed in syrup. Thawed frozen litchis work, though the texture may be slightly softer.
