How to transform leftovers into delicious summer drinks

When the temperature rises, we all look for the same thing: a cold, refreshing drink… ideally not too sweet. Good news: your fridge is already full of everything you need — yes, even those slightly soft fruits and forgotten leftovers.

Refreshing frappés

In many warm countries, fresh fruit juices are a daily habit. And even better: they’re the perfect solution for saving your slightly “ugly” fruits.

The method couldn’t be simpler: ripe fruit + ice + blender. Let yourself be inspired and toss in any tired herbs you have on hand.

Try these combos:

Watermelon + lime
Strawberries + basil
Pineapple + ginger

These frappés can even become the base for homemade mocktails or cocktails: think piña colada, margarita, or daiquiri… in a zerowaste version.

Infuse instead of throwing away

A few wilted mint leaves or basil stems? Toss them into a pitcher of water or juice. The herbs gently release their aromas and turn plain water into a refreshing summer drink.

Dare to try:

Dill + cranberry juice
Watermelon + mint
Cilantro + ginger

The same logic applies to citrus peels or cut fruit: infuse, strain, sip.

Purées to twist your classics

Overripe fruits are also perfect for creating deliciously sweet purées. They’re ideal for boosting your drinks.

On the menu:

Raspberry + iced coffee
Mango + iced matcha latte
Peach + iced tea

Just pour the purée into the bottom of your glass and add your favorite infusion for a WOW effect.

Ice cubes that steal the show

Leftovers can also be tucked… into an ice cube tray. Fruit pieces, herbs, or juice make cute little cubes.

Small cubes of strawberries and mint will add pep to your water or cocktail — and they won’t dilute your drink as they melt. And for a caffeinated version? Freeze leftover coffee for homemade iced coffee that never loses intensity.

The zerowaste reflex

What we love about these drinks is that they’re as easy as they are useful for fighting food waste during this season of abundance. Homemade cocktails are an excellent way to reuse overripe fruit and small everyday leftovers. Grab your blender!