Low-Fat Mixed Citrus Eye-Opener W/Cucumber & Mint

This vibrant Mixed Citrus Eye-Opener is the perfect thirst-quencher for warm days or as a light starter before a meal. It blends the bright acidity of fresh orange, grapefruit, lemon, and lime juices with the subtle sweetness of sugar. The addition of thinly sliced cucumber adds a cool, crisp texture and visual appeal, while fresh mint leaves provide an aromatic finish that elevates the entire drink. Ideal for potlucks, garden parties, or simply enjoying on a patio, this low-fat beverage is easy to prepare with pantry staples. Serve it over ice for an instant refreshment that feels indulgent yet light.

Cuisine: American

Courses: Appetisers

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 1

Calories: 204.2

Dietary: Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Description

This vibrant Mixed Citrus Eye-Opener is the perfect thirst-quencher for warm days or as a light starter before a meal. It blends the bright acidity of fresh orange, grapefruit, lemon, and lime juices with the subtle sweetness of sugar. The addition of thinly sliced cucumber adds a cool, crisp texture and visual appeal, while fresh mint leaves provide an aromatic finish that elevates the entire drink. Ideal for potlucks, garden parties, or simply enjoying on a patio, this low-fat beverage is easy to prepare with pantry staples. Serve it over ice for an instant refreshment that feels indulgent yet light.

Ingredients

1 quart Fresh squeezed orange juice
1 1/2 cups Fresh squeezed grapefruit juice
Juice of 1 lemon
Juice and grated zest of 2 limes
2 tablespoons Sugar -- or to taste (2 to 3)
1/4 English Cucumber -- thinly sliced
1 Handful Mint leaves

Directions

1
In a large pitcher, combine the fresh orange juice, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, lime juice, and lime zest.
2
Dissolve the sugar in a small amount of hot water until clear, then pour this simple syrup into the pitcher with the citrus juices.
3
Add 1 cup of cold water to the pitcher to dilute the mixture to your preferred strength.
4
Gently stir in the thinly sliced cucumber.
5
Lightly crush the mint leaves in your hand to release their oils, then add them to the pitcher.
6
Fill the pitcher with ice cubes and stir gently to chill.
7
Serve immediately while cold and fresh.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 1

Amount Per Serving
Calories 204.2kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.7g2%
Saturated Fat 0.4g2%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 5.2mg1%
Total Carbohydrate 51.0g17%
Dietary Fiber 3.0g12%
Sugars 36.2g
Protein 3.6g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1 tablespoon or use a low-calorie sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.

You can prepare the juice mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the cucumber, mint, and ice just before serving to maintain crispness and prevent dilution.

If fresh citrus is not available, high-quality bottled juices can be used, though the flavor will be less vibrant.

For a sparkling variation, replace half of the cold water with club soda or sparkling water just before serving.

Keywords: citrus, cucumber, mint, refreshing, low-fat, drink, punch, summer, healthy, vegan, grapefruit, orange, lemon, lime, party, appetizer, easy, quick, summer-drinks, hydrating

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/low-fat-mixed-citrus-eye-opener-w-cucumber-mint1-5-pts/