- In a glass, add ice (optional) and pour in coconut water.
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt into the glass and stir gently.
- Add freshly squeezed orange juice and mix well.
- For a creamier texture, blend with collagen powder for 10-15 seconds (optional).
- Serve immediately for optimal freshness and benefits.
- Calories:120 kcal25%
- Energy:502 kJ22%
- Protein:2 g28%
- Carbohydrates:28 mg40%
- Sugar:24 mg8%
- Salt:50 g25%
- Fat:0.5 g20%
Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh
Orange Coconut Water Recipe – Refreshing & Hydrating Drink
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for a drink that’s both incredibly refreshing and actually good for you. Especially with the Indian summer heat, staying hydrated is key! This Orange Coconut Water recipe is my go-to – it’s quick, easy, and tastes like sunshine in a glass. I first whipped this up on a particularly scorching day, and honestly, it’s been a staple ever since. Let’s get into it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another fruity drink. It’s a powerhouse of hydration and vitamins! It’s perfect for a post-workout boost, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or just when you need a little something to cool you down. Plus, it comes together in just 5 minutes. Seriously, what’s not to love?
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:
- 1 cup Orange Juice
- 1 cup Coconut Water
- 1 pinch Sea Salt
- 1 scoop Collagen Powder (optional)
- 2 Tablespoons Full-Fat Coconut Milk
- ½ Teaspoon Cream of Tartar
Ingredient Notes
Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.
- Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed is always best, but good quality store-bought works in a pinch.
- Coconut Water: More on the varieties below!
- Sea Salt: Don’t skip this! It enhances the sweetness and provides electrolytes.
- Collagen Powder: Totally optional, but adds a protein boost and can improve texture.
- Full-Fat Coconut Milk: This adds a lovely creaminess. Don’t use light coconut milk – it won’t have the same richness. About 30ml is perfect.
- Cream of Tartar: Sounds a little unusual, right? It helps balance the flavors and adds a subtle tang.
Coconut Water Varieties & Benefits
Did you know there are different types of coconut water? You’ll generally find young green coconuts (the sweetest and most hydrating) and mature coconuts. I prefer young green coconut water for this recipe – it has a naturally sweeter flavor. Coconut water is packed with electrolytes like potassium, making it fantastic for rehydration, especially after being out in the sun or exercising.
Orange Juice: Choosing the Best Quality
Freshly squeezed orange juice is the star here! It’s bursting with Vitamin C and adds a bright, citrusy flavor. If you’re using store-bought, opt for 100% orange juice with no added sugar. About 240ml is ideal.
The Role of Sea Salt
A tiny pinch of sea salt might seem strange in a sweet drink, but trust me on this one! It actually enhances the sweetness of the orange and coconut water, and it replenishes electrolytes lost through sweat. It’s a little trick my dadi (grandmother) always used!
Collagen Powder: Optional Boost & Benefits
I often add a scoop of collagen powder for an extra protein boost and to give the drink a slightly creamier texture. It’s great for skin, hair, and joint health. But if you don’t have it, no worries – the drink is delicious without it too!
Full-Fat Coconut Milk: For Creaminess
A couple of tablespoons of full-fat coconut milk takes this drink to the next level. It adds a luxurious creaminess that makes it feel like a real treat. About 30ml is perfect.
Cream of Tartar: A Unique Addition
Don’t be scared off by this ingredient! Cream of tartar (also known as potassium bitartrate) adds a subtle tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully. It also helps to brighten the flavors.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s make this! It’s so simple.
- Grab a glass and add ice if you like your drinks extra cold.
- Pour in the coconut water.
- Add the freshly squeezed orange juice.
- Sprinkle in that pinch of sea salt – don’t skip it!
- If you’re using collagen powder, add it now.
- Add the full-fat coconut milk.
- Finally, add the cream of tartar.
- Give it a good stir, and if you used collagen powder, blend for 10-15 seconds for a smoother texture.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Expert Tips
- Chill your ingredients: Using chilled coconut water and orange juice will make the drink even more refreshing.
- Adjust to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of orange juice or coconut water to suit your preference.
- Don’t over-blend: If you’re using a blender, blend just until the collagen powder is dissolved. Over-blending can make the drink frothy.
Variations
This recipe is a great base for experimentation!
- Spice Level Adjustment: A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper adds a lovely kick! My friend, Priya, swears by it.
- Festival Adaptations (Summer Coolers): During Holi or Baisakhi, I like to add a few drops of rose water for a floral twist.
- Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
- Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.
- Variations with Other Citrus Fruits: Try swapping the orange juice for grapefruit, tangerine, or even lime juice!
Serving Suggestions
This drink is perfect on its own, but it also pairs well with light snacks like fruit salad, namak pare, or a simple sandwich. It’s also a fantastic accompaniment to spicy Indian dishes – the sweetness helps to cool the palate.
Storage Instructions
This drink is best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The flavor may change slightly over time.
FAQs
Let’s answer some common questions!
What are the benefits of drinking orange and coconut water together?
Both are packed with vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes, making this a super hydrating and nutritious drink. It’s great for boosting your immune system and replenishing fluids.
Can I use pre-packaged orange juice instead of fresh?
You can, but freshly squeezed is always best for flavor and nutrients. If using store-bought, choose 100% orange juice with no added sugar.
Is this drink suitable for daily consumption?
Yes, in moderation! It’s a healthy and refreshing alternative to sugary sodas and juices.
What if I don’t have collagen powder? Can I substitute it?
No substitution is really needed! It’s perfectly delicious without it. You could try a tablespoon of Greek yogurt for a similar creamy texture, but it will change the flavor.
How can I make this drink more visually appealing?
Garnish with an orange slice, a sprig of mint, or a few berries. A pretty glass always helps too!
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! Mango, pineapple, or strawberries would all be delicious additions. Blend them in with the other ingredients for a fruity twist.