Cold Drink

This Derby-ready julep doubles down on the mint flavor with a bright Mint Simple Syrup and fresh mint leaves. The julep cup is essential to the presentation. This recipe yields about 1 1/4 cups mint simple syrup, enough for 30 cocktails. You can also use it to make a refreshing non-alcoholic drink—add a few tablespoons to club soda and serve over ice.

This delivers a concentrated shot of vitamin C (from the citrus) and antioxidants (from the prickly pear).

This also makes a tasty spritzer—use club soda in place of water.

Buttermilk, packed with calcium and probiotics, lends a subtle tanginess to this spice-spiked lassi. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for a hit of crunch.

To get the prettiest blush color for this drink, be sure to choose rhubarb without any green streaks, and don’t remove the fibrous pink peel.

A pleasingly fiery cold buster that belongs in your fridge all winter long.

"I'll juice just about any green, but spinach is my go-to. Melon just sweetens the deal." —Alison Roman, senior associate food editor