Feelin' HOT? Add a little Ice to your life!

I know that it's HOT everywhere... but it is VERY HOT here in Hawaii.  I can't even explain how hot it's been the last few weeks.  Anything cold and cool is always the best cure for the HOT blues.  I love love to make great use of my ice cube tray for things other than just ice... especially during the summer months.  I wish I had a picture to show all of you of the beautiful and awesome treats but I promise I will snap one the next time. :)

Here are your ingredients... it is simple, healthy and for the most part - affordable.

Depending on the number of ice cube trays you will be using - you may not need very much.  I enjoy using fresh ingredients - but frozen works just as well.  You will need approximately 3/4 cup of each fruit and approximately 2-3 cups of your favorite lemonade.  You can use any type of juice you want - but I prefer the tart & sweet you get from lemonade.

• Blueberries
• Raspberries
• Strawberries
• Oranges/tangerines
• Lemonade, either homemade, store bought or even concentrate.  If you are using concentrate, mix according to the package directions.  If you have fresh-homemade lemonade - you may want to add a little sugar or your favorite sweetener to the mix so that it has a little sweetness.
• Mint (optional)

I like to use fresh berries because they tend to be readily available during this time of year.  You will want to slice your strawberries into small cubes so that they will fit into your ice tray.  Make sure you have enough room for all your little fruits.  Slice up the orange in small cubes as well.  If you decide you want to use mint - I like to put mint into the ice cube tray first - and then pile the other fruits in.  That way - it will look pretty with the little green accent.  If you have a large welled ice cube tray - you can easily fit one of each fruit into the well.  If not, then separate them according to how ever you would like.

Once all the trays are full - slowly pour the lemonade into each well.  Take your time - because the fruit like to float to the top and by rushing - it can spill and make a huge mess.  Once you are done filling all of the trays, slowly fit them into your freezer and let them sit.  I like to make these with my eldest son at night and they are perfect for the next day.  If you want to use them the same day - I would let them freeze for a minimum of 2 hours.  If you want to stick toothpicks in the cubes - let them freeze for about 15 - 20 mins and then insert the toothpicks.

When they are done - you have a awesome treat to savor with your children.  It is healthy, delicious and refreshing.  Or - you can use them in your favorite champagne or tropical drink for an extra wow factor.  I like to pour lemonade for my boys and put the cubes inside.  They love the flavors and when the ice melts they have a little fruity surprise at the end.

Try out this little recipe and tell me what you think.  If you make any changes or additions to it - I would love to know that too. :)

Have a great summer.

Honey