Lavender-Mint Oasis Punch
Experience the ultimate refreshment on a hot summer evening with this Lavender-Mint Oasis Punch. This delightful beverage blends the soothing aroma of fresh lavender with the coolness of mint, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. Perfect for gatherings or simply as a way to relax after a long day, this punch not only tastes great but also visually captivates with its vibrant colors and floral garnishes. Did you know? Lavender and mint belong to the same plant family, making them natural companions in both flavor and fragrance. Serve chilled in a beautiful punch bowl, and make your summer nights unforgettable!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Fresh mint leaves
3 tablespoons (lightly bruised to release flavor)
Fresh lavender blossoms
2-3 tablespoons (or 1 tablespoon dried lavender blossoms)
Boiling water
6 cups (for steeping the tea)
Chilled ginger ale
1 liter (for a fizzy finish)
Purple grape juice
1 cup (adds sweetness and color)
Mint leaf ice cubes
as needed (made with whole mint leaves in water)
Thinly sliced orange or lemon
for garnishing (optional garnish)
Lavender flowers
for floating garnish (optional garnish)
Mint sprig
for garnish (optional garnish)
Instructions
1
Prepare mint leaf ice cubes by placing one whole mint leaf into each compartment of an ice cube tray. Fill the tray with water and freeze fully until solid.
2
In a teapot, combine the bruised fresh mint leaves and lavender blossoms. Pour 6 cups of boiling water over the leaves, cover, and steep for 10 minutes to extract flavors.
3
Once the tea has steeped, allow it to cool completely. Strain the mixture to remove the leaves and flowers, placing the brewed tea into a large punch bowl.
4
Before serving, slowly mix the chilled ginger ale and purple grape juice into the bowl, ensuring to add the ginger ale last to keep its fizz.
5
To serve, add the mint leaf ice cubes to individual cups and ladle the punch over them. Optionally, float lavender buds and mint sprigs on top of the punch for beautiful garnishing. Garnish each drink with a slice of orange or lemon as desired.
6
Enjoy your refreshing Lavender-Mint Oasis Punch and embrace the delight of summer evenings!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lavender-Mint Oasis Punch?
It is a refreshing summer beverage that blends the soothing aroma of lavender with the coolness of mint and the fizz of ginger ale.
How many servings does this punch recipe make?
This recipe yields 12 servings.
Is Lavender-Mint Oasis Punch alcoholic?
No, this is a non-alcoholic beverage suitable for all ages.
What are the primary flavors in this punch?
The primary flavors are fresh lavender, cool mint, sweet purple grape juice, and bubbly ginger ale.
How do I make the special mint leaf ice cubes?
Place one whole mint leaf into each compartment of an ice cube tray, fill with water, and freeze until solid.
How long should the lavender and mint steep?
The lavender and mint should steep in boiling water for 10 minutes to extract the flavors.
Can I use dried lavender if I don't have fresh?
Yes, you can substitute 2-3 tablespoons of fresh blossoms with 1 tablespoon of dried lavender blossoms.
What is the purpose of bruising the mint leaves?
Bruising the leaves helps to release their natural oils and maximize the mint flavor in the tea.
How much ginger ale is required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 liter of chilled ginger ale.
Why should the ginger ale be added last?
Adding the ginger ale last ensures the punch remains fizzy and doesn't lose its carbonation.
What type of juice is added to the punch?
One cup of purple grape juice is added to provide sweetness and a vibrant color.
How much boiling water is used for the tea base?
You will need 6 cups of boiling water to steep the mint and lavender.
Are lavender and mint related plants?
Yes, lavender and mint belong to the same plant family, which makes them natural flavor companions.
What garnishes are suggested for this punch?
Suggested garnishes include mint sprigs, lavender buds, and thinly sliced orange or lemon.
Do I need to strain the tea?
Yes, once the tea has steeped and cooled, strain the mixture to remove the leaves and blossoms before mixing.
How should I serve the punch?
Serve the punch chilled in individual cups over mint leaf ice cubes, optionally floating floral garnishes on top.
Can I prepare the tea base in advance?
Yes, the tea can be brewed and cooled ahead of time, but the ginger ale should only be added just before serving.
Is this punch recipe suitable for a party?
Absolutely, it is designed for gatherings and celebrations, especially during hot summer evenings.
What category does this drink fall under?
It is categorized as a Punch Beverage.
Does this punch contain caffeine?
No, as it uses herbal ingredients and juice, it is naturally caffeine-free.
What gives the punch its purple hue?
The purple grape juice and the lavender infusion contribute to its visually captivating color.
How much fresh mint is needed for the tea?
You will need 3 tablespoons of lightly bruised fresh mint leaves for the steeping process.
Is this recipe considered a 'mocktail'?
Yes, it is a non-alcoholic herbal celebration drink that fits the description of a mocktail.
How should the fruit garnishes be prepared?
The orange or lemon should be thinly sliced before being added to the cups or the bowl.
Is the ginger ale added to the teapot?
No, the ginger ale is mixed into the cooled tea base in a large punch bowl.
Can I use more mint if I prefer a stronger flavor?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of mint leaves to suit your personal taste preferences.
Does the recipe provide nutritional information like calories?
No, the recipe does not currently list specific nutritional data such as calories or sugar content.
Should the punch be served in a specific vessel?
A beautiful punch bowl is recommended to showcase the vibrant colors and garnishes.
Are the mint leaf ice cubes mandatory?
While not mandatory, they add a beautiful visual touch and extra mint flavor as they melt.
What makes this punch an 'Oasis'?
Its refreshing and cooling nature provides a relaxing escape on a hot summer day.