Water

7 Homemade Ice Pops That Go Beyond Juice

It's time to break out that ice pop mold!

Do you own an ice pop mold? Maybe you bought it for a special recipe once and now it's just taking up space in your cupboard? Now's the time to pull it out. It's hot out. And nothing beats the heat like something frozen.

I'm guessing that the reason you're not using your ice pop mold very often is because you think you need to follow specific ice pop recipes to use it, and lack of time or lack of ingredients is getting in the way. I get it, I've been there. Epicurious has a lot of crowd-pleasing recipes if you want them, but the great thing about an ice pop mold is that you don't need to follow a recipe to use it.

A lot of ingredients that you probably already have in your fridge or pantry can be frozen into perfectly satisfying ice pops—and they don't necessarily need to be sweet. You also don't need to use every mold at the same time or for the same thing: fill each mold with something different and your freezer will suddenly become more exciting than any variety pack you can buy in the ice cream aisle.

Here's some of my favorite things to pour into my ice pop molds:

Coffee and Tea

Next time you make iced coffee or iced tea, make extra and pour it into an ice pop mold. Add a little milk and maybe even some sweetener, and you'll be able to get your caffeine fix in a totally refreshing and unexpected fun new way.

Yogurt

Turn your favorite breakfast yogurt parfait into an ice pop. Stir together some yogurt and jam or fresh fruit and even granola and pour it into ice pop molds.

Smoothies

Any kind of smoothie will also make a great ice pop. Any morning you're making a smoothie, just pour a little bit off into an ice pop mold and you'll have a healthy frozen treat to enjoy in the afternoon or after dinner.

Pudding

If you ever find yourself with leftover pudding, spoon it into ice pop molds and freeze it into a decadent frozen dessert on a stick. Or make (or buy) a batch of pudding just for the purpose of turning it into ice pops—rice pudding pops are surprisingly addictive, and chocolate pudding pops will remind you of the Fudgsicles you grew up with.

Ice Cream

Make your own ice cream bars by softening any kind of ice cream you like, mixing in some fruit, candy, nuts, cookie chunks, jam, chocolate sauce, peanut butter, or what have you, and spooning it into ice pop molds. Be sure to pack them in firmly so they re-freezes in a solid form. Once they're frozen, you can get even more crazy and unmold them, dip them in melted chocolate and re-freeze for chocolate-coated ice cream bars.

Cocktails and Wine

On the hottest summer evening, wouldn't it be nice to nibble a frozen cocktail rather than drink one? Your favorite cocktails can easily turn into ice pops, so long as there is enough water or juice or non-alcoholic liquid in the mix to help them freeze. Wine ice pops are amazing too, and a great way to preserve any wine remaining in a bottle you opened but can't finish. Just mix that wine with some juice or water (use at least equal parts wine and non-alcoholic liquid) and maybe some fresh fruit and freeze it in your ice pop molds.

An ice pop mold is basically a huge ice cube tray that you can put sticks in. But you don't have to put sticks in it. These extra-large ice cubes are especially good for serving a cocktails in pitchers or punch bowls. For an eye-catching touch, tuck a few sprigs of fresh herbs or edible flower petals into each mold before you fill it with water, or add whole berries or slices of fruit.

[via Epicurious]

Coconut water, the subtly sweet and electrolyte-filled beverage touted as nature’s energy drink, recently exploded in popularity. And it opened the floodgates: On today’s store shelves, you’ll find even more unusual specialty waters that deliver hydrating alternatives to sugary fruit juices and sodas.

In addition to fewer calories, these new “waters” offer perks such as vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, electrolytes, and, notably, sustainable ingredients sourced from North America rather than Southeast Asia, where coconuts are typically harvested before they’re shipped to the United States. Check out these natural quenchers—sometimes enhanced with yummy ingredients—for unique taste and health benefits.

Alkaline Water

What it is: Alkaline water is infused with trace minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium to elevate its pH to 9.5 (neutral is 7).

Why we love it: Most American diets contain too many acid-producing animal products and insufficient alkaline-promoting fruits and vegetables. Some believe drinking alkaline water counteracts this imbalance to improve bone and muscle health.

The facts: One study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that older adults who followed an alkaline diet for three years maintained more muscle mass than the control participants.

Try: Essentia Alkaline Water

Almond Water

What it is: Not to be confused with almond milk, which comes from ground almonds, almond water is made with boiled sliced almonds, water, cane sugar, and almond extract.

Why we love it: It’s delicious! Almond water differs from other plant-based drinks because it doesn’t claim to be uniquely functional. It’s simply a refreshing, slightly sweet sipper to enjoy alone or with meals.

The facts: The first nationally available almond water uses a traditional French recipe from the founder’s grandmother.

Try: Victoria's Kitchen Almond Water Original

Artichoke Water

What it is: A whole artichoke—including the heart, stem, leaves, and flower—is extracted into a bottle using a proprietary method to retain nutrients.

Why we love it: Sometimes balanced with lemon and fresh mint and packing just 40 calories per 8 ounces, artichoke water delivers liver-supporting phytonutrients like silymarin.

The facts: Artichokes are typically harvested close to manufacturing facilities in California, so they boast a low carbon footprint.

Try: Arty Artichoke Water

Cactus Water

What it is: Juice and extract from the prickly pear cactus is blended with water and other natural ingredients such as lemon and stevia.

Why we love it: Popular in Latin America, prickly pear is rich in antioxidants and carotenoids, magnesium, and vitamin C.

The facts: Southwestern folk medicine uses prickly pear cactus fruit and juice to treat maladies from diabetes to hangovers.

Try: Caliwater Cactus Water

Coconut Water

What it is: Slightly bittersweet coconut water comes from the clear liquid found in young green coconuts.

Why we love it: Touted as nature’s ultimate hydrator, coconut water contains high levels of electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and calcium.

The facts: In remote areas of the world, doctors have successfully used coconut water intravenously to rehydrate patients in emergencies.

Try: Harmless Harvest 100% Raw Coconut Water Dark Cacao

Maple Water

What it is: Though traditionally processed into maple syrup, maple water is the unrefined tree sap that naturally travels through maple tree trunks in the spring thaw.

Why we love it: Slightly sweet and mild flavored, this refreshing beverage contains dozens of phytonutrients, including some unique to tree waters.

The facts: Drinking maple water conserves American forests by providing landowners a way to monetize their forests without cutting trees down.

Try: Vertical Water 100% Pure Maple Water

Melon Water

What it is: The best melon waters contain one cold-pressed ingredient: watermelon.

Why we love it: This energizing beverage is rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants, potassium, and citrulline, a muscle-supporting amino acid—making it a fantastic sports drink.

The facts: Some melon waters incorporate the watermelon rind, which contains even higher concentrations of citrulline.

Try: WtrMln Wtr Cold Pressed Juiced Watermelon

Cashew: the next coconut water?

Usually left on the ground to rot, bright-red and yellow cashew apples are the stems left over after cashew nuts are plucked for harvest; they’re tangy, sweet, and packed with vitamin C. Now, a few large companies are putting this previously ignored resource to good use. PepsiCo India recently teamed up with the Clinton Foundation (yes, those Clintons) to collect cashew apples from a local network of small-scale farmers in India, turning the crop into a mixed-fruit drink (sold in India) and replacing more expensive ingredients like apple, pineapple, and banana. The dozen or so growers told The New York Times that this season’s cashew apple sales raised their families’ incomes by as much as 20 percent.

[via Delicious Living]

20 Foods to Help You Stay Hydrated this Summer

For most of us, summertime is synonymous with long days, warm evenings, visits to the pool, and, above all, sunshine. But when that glorious yellow orb is warming and lighting the world, it can be easy to forget to stay hydrated. This is problematic, because poor hydration can lead to a host of short and long-term health problems, including constipation, nose bleeds, headaches, coughing, fatigue, acne, and unwanted weight gain. But staying hydrated when it’s hot outside doesn’t have to be a difficult chore; by including certain foods in your diet, you can help your body stay happy and hydrated while you beat the heat.

Here are 20 foods to stay hydrated with, so keep them on your menu when the days start to grow long and hot.

1. Watermelon, water content: 92%

Watermelon is a cherished summer treat, and for good reason—it’s tasty, fun to eat, and undeniably refreshing. Of course, it’s no secret that watermelon is loaded with water; after all, it’s even in the name. However, it also contains lycopene, which is an antioxidant believed to help fight cancer.

2. Strawberries, water content: 92%

Another summer favorite, strawberries are as water-rich as watermelons, but thanks to their small size, they are a bit easier to eat while on the go. They may also promote bone health, boost short-term memory, and even help burn stored fat.

3. Apricots, water content: 86%

Generally only available fresh through the beginning of summer (due to the fact that they bloom early, have little tolerance to extreme heat, and are difficult to ship), fresh apricots are nonetheless widely popular. In addition to having a high water content, they are also rich in antioxidants, fiber, and beta carotene.

4. Iceberg Lettuce, water content: 96%

Although you’re probably less-likely to grab a handful of lettuce to take along on your summer walk or July beach-trip, one of the things that makes lettuce such a wonderful food is that it’s easy to incorporate into other meals. A healthy salad or fresh sandwich can be a great way to get the hydrating benefits of lettuce—as well as the other nutritional advantages—while still enjoying a delicious meal.

5. Spinach, water content: 92%

Spinach doesn’t have quite as much water in it as iceberg lettuce, but it is a bit more nutritious overall. However, the calcium and iron in raw spinach are often unprocessable by the human body, because of a compound called oxalic acid that is also present in spinach. This problem can be solved by simply cooking the spinach, blending it in a smoothie, or by pairing it with foods rich in vitamin C.

6. Grapefruit, water content: 91%

Tart and tangy, grapefruits are loaded with mouth-watering citrus juice. They’re also suspected to help burn unwanted fat, while reducing cravings and boosting the immune system. For added nutrients and hydration, consider peeling the grapefruit and eating it like an orange, rather than cutting it.

7. Sweet Peppers, water content: 92%

Sweet peppers are large, mild peppers which have a subtle sweet flavor and are generally very crisp. They come in a variety of colors, but all of them have a high water content. They are often used in salads and main dishes, but when sliced into smaller sections, they can make a great mid-day treat that’s high in vitamins C, E, B6, and helpful enzymes, and low in calories.

8. Tomatoes, water content: 94%

We’ve come a long way in the last 200 hundred or so years, when the prevailing British and American belief was that tomatoes were poisonous (despite the fact that they were eaten regularly in Spain and Italy). These days, tomatoes are found in dishes around the world, and are considered by many to be world’s most popular (and possibly most nutritious) fruit.

9. Radishes, water content: 95%

Often overlooked as a standalone vegetable, radishes are nevertheless a slightly spicy treat that can also help keep you hydrated and healthy. This is because radishes contain vitamin C, zinc, and phosphorus, which all play a part in keeping you feeling your best during the hot months.

10. Cauliflower, water content: 92%

Although you may not realize it, cauliflower actually has as high of a percentage of water as strawberries—this helps contribute to the crispiness for which cauliflower is known. It also contains sulforaphane (which is believed to kill cancer stem cells), is loaded with vitamins, and helps to regulate digestion.

11. Broccoli, water content: 91%

Similar to cauliflower in many respects, broccoli is likewise full of vitamins and sulforaphane, and contains a high amount of water. It is best for the body when eaten raw.

12. Carrots, water content: 87%

Carrots are best known for their bright orange color and their sometimes-debated ability to improve vision. What they’re not as well known for is their water content. However, carrots are easy to pack along for snacks, and can help keep the body hydrated.

13. Cantaloupe, water content: 90%

Cantaloupe is another great summer treat that will keep you hydrated. As summer-season fruits, they are available fresh all the way through to the end of August. They are nutritious and low in calories, and have a unique musky flavor. Consider giving it a sour-tasting flavor boost by eating it with a dash of lime or lemon juice.

14. Zucchini, water content: 95%

Although green squash such as zucchini may not sound like the perfect summer snack, it is loaded with lutein and zeaxanthin (which promote healthy vision), manganese (which protects tissue from damage caused by free radicals), and massive amounts of vitamin C. Zucchini also has a very high water content, and is the perfect addition to your summer diet.

15. Celery, water content: 95%

Celery is a perfect food for satisfying cravings and promoting weight loss, all thanks to its high water and fiber content, and its absurdly low calorie count. At the same time, celery contains vitamins A, C, and K, making it nutritious as well as filling and thirst quenching.

16. Pineapple, water content: 87%

One of the most popular tropical fruits, pineapples are extremely rich in vitamin C. In fact, 1 cup of fresh pineapple contains over 100% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C. Pineapple is also high in manganese, making it a healthy and energy-rich fruit that will also keep you hydrated.

17. Peaches, water content: 88%

Another fruit which is great by itself or as a part of a larger meal, peaches are also known to calm upset stomachs and even relieve anxiety (they’re known as the “Fruit of Calmness” in Hungary). Their juicy flesh contains significant amounts of water, and makes a great snack.

18. Cranberries, water content: 87%

The health benefits of cranberries are widely recognized, which is one of the reasons that cranberry juice is so often mixed with other juices. Cranberries contain vitamin C, fiber, and more antioxidants than almost any other fruit or vegetable. Their high water content makes them a must for those who want to eat healthy and keep hydrated.

19. Blueberries, water content: 85%

These small, dark berries are often added to other dishes, and are known to help lower cholesterol, and also decrease the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Much like cranberries, they contain incredibly high amounts of antioxidants. And, also like cranberries, blueberries contain a high percentage of water.

20. Cucumber, water content: 96%

If cucumbers contained any more water, they’d probably be a soup. Suffice it to say that cucumbers contain more water than almost any other solid food. And, thanks to their high levels of vitamins, their ability to help flush toxins from the human body, and their usefulness in controlling blood pressure, cucumbers are actually one of the most nutritious foods available.

So, don’t let the summer heat dry you up; grab a few of your favorite hydrating ingredients and make a summer smoothie that will not only quench your thirst, but also nourish your body in the process. Now get out there and enjoy that sun!

[via The Blend]