I used to crave soda around 3 PM like clockwork — especially in summer. But every time I gave in, I ended up feeling bloated, tired, and weirdly hungrier by dinner.

One afternoon, I tried blending pineapple with lime and ginger… and bam. It had that crisp, fizzy feel I was missing — but with real ingredients and no crash. Now this Tropical Ginger Cooler is my go-to when I need something energizing, light, and just a little spicy.

It feels indulgent, but it’s totally clean.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)

• Juice of 1/2 lime

• 1/2 tsp fresh grated ginger (or more to taste)

• 1/2 cup cold water

• 1 cup sparkling water

• 1/2 cup ice

• Optional: 1–2 tsp honey or a few drops of stevia

Instructions

1. Blend the base
   In a blender, combine pineapple, lime juice, ginger, and cold water. Blend until smooth.

2. Strain (optional)
   Strain through a fine mesh sieve for a smoother sip — or leave it pulpy for extra fiber.

3. Add fizz and chill
   Pour over ice and top with sparkling water. Stir gently.

4. Sweeten to taste
   Add honey or stevia if you like it sweeter. Garnish with a lime wedge or pineapple slice.

Sarah’s Tips

• If ginger feels strong, start with 1/4 tsp and work up.

• Want a little more zing? Add a pinch of cayenne or turmeric.

• This is great after workouts — pineapple and ginger both help with inflammation!

• Use coconut water instead of sparkling water for a tropical twist.

Nutrition (per serving)

• Calories: 30

• Sugar: 5g (from fruit)

• Carbohydrates: 8g

• Fiber: 1g

• Protein: 0g

• Fat: 0g

• Vitamin C: ~25% DV