Simple Mangosteen & Lime Cooler
A bright, refreshing tropical drink that marries the delicate sweetness of mangosteen with zesty lime. Light, hydrating, and ready in minutes, it's the perfect pick-me-up for a warm day or whenever you crave something simple and revitalizing.
For 2 servings
- prep · ~3 min
Peel the mangosteens and extract the flesh.
Cut each mangosteen around its equator with a sharp knife, twist open, and gently scoop out the white flesh segments. Discard the seeds and thick purple rind.
TIPChoose mangosteens that yield slightly to pressure — they'll be the sweetest. - mix · ~1 min
Blend the mangosteen base.
Add mangosteen flesh, lime juice, sugar, salt, and half the ice-cold water into the blender. Blend on high until completely smooth, about 30 to 45 seconds.
- other · ~1 min
Strain and dilute the cooler.
Pour the blended mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher to remove any remaining fibrous bits. Stir in the remaining ice-cold water and taste, adjusting for sweetness or lime.
- assemble · ~1 min
Assemble the drinks.
Fill two serving glasses with ice cubes. Pour the strained cooler evenly over the ice.
- garnish · ~1 min
Garnish with mint and serve immediately.
Gently slap the mint leaves between your palms to release their aroma, then place a few leaves on top of each glass. Serve at once 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 ripe mangosteens that yield slightly to pressure for the sweetest flavor.
- 2Blend the mangosteen flesh thoroughly to break down fibers for a smooth texture.
- 3Strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any stringy bits for a silky drink.
- 4Chill the water and glasses in advance for an extra-cold cooler without dilution.
- 5Adjust the sugar and lime juice to balance the natural sweetness of the mangosteen.
- 6Slap the mint leaves to release oils before garnishing for a fragrant burst.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add a small sliced Thai bird chili (or a pinch of cayenne) to the blender for a sweet-spicy cooler that cuts through the heat.
herbalHerbal
Muddle a few basil or Thai basil leaves with the lime juice before blending for an aromatic twist.
low sugarLow-sugar
Replace the sugar with 1-2 tablespoons of honey or agave syrup, or use a zero-calorie sweetener like stevia, for a lighter drink.
sparklingSparkling
Swap the still water for sparkling water or soda water after blending for a fizzy, effervescent cooler.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Mangosteen is known for its xanthones, natural compounds that help fight oxidative stress.
Immune Support
Lime juice provides a good dose of vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
Low Calorie Refreshment
This drink is light on calories, making it a guilt-free way to stay hydrated on a hot day.
Natural Hydration
The combination of water and fruit flesh provides a refreshing way to meet daily fluid needs without added artificial ingredients.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but drain the syrup first and reduce the added sugar, as canned mangosteen is often packed in sweetened syrup.
