These frozen fruit pops are made with just two simple ingredients—watermelon and 100% fruit juice—without added sugars or artificial colors.
Why buy store-bought popsicles when you can make refreshing, healthy ones at home?
Late last week I was invited to NECN, a local Boston TV station, to record a segment about what to eat and drink on hot days to stay cool and hydrated. After several days of temperatures above 90°F, the timing couldn’t have been better.
During the live segment I shared four practical tips for staying comfortable in the heat. One of my favorites: Make homemade frozen fruit pops. They’re an easy way to cool down and rehydrate without the excess sugar and artificial colors common in many pre-packaged options.
- 1½ cups cubed seedless watermelon
- 1/2 cup 100% pomegranate-blueberry juice
- Tip: If you can’t find a pomegranate-blueberry blend, use any 100% pomegranate juice or apple juice as an alternative.
- Combine the watermelon and juice in a blender and puree until smooth. Pour the mixture into four 3-ounce ice pop molds and freeze until firm, about 3 hours. To release the pops, hold the molds under warm water for a few seconds to loosen.
- No molds? Divide the liquid between four paper cups, cover each cup with foil, insert a craft stick through the center of each foil, and freeze until solid.
Other easy ways to stay cool when the mercury rises:
Drink plenty of water. If plain water feels boring, naturally flavor it with slices of cucumber, citrus, strawberries, or a few sprigs of mint to make it more appealing.
Eat more fruits and vegetables. Produce is high in water, easy to digest, and naturally cooling—especially when chilled or frozen. Frozen grapes, blueberries, and even peas make refreshing snacks; let frozen grapes sit a few minutes so they’re easier to bite.
My final tip: Eat spicy foods. The compound capsaicin in chili peppers increases circulation and encourages sweating, which helps cool your body as moisture evaporates from your skin. For an even stronger cooling sensation, stand in front of a fan while you enjoy a spicy dish.
