This refreshing berry hibiscus drink combines tart hibiscus tea, juicy berries, citrus, and protein for a flavorful beverage that can be enjoyed chilled. It’s a convenient option when you want something refreshing with protein rather than a traditional sugary drink.
Ingredients
- 4 cups brewed hibiscus tea, cooled
- 1 cup mixed berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
- 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, optional
- 1–2 scoops unflavored or berry-flavored whey protein isolate
- 1 scoop collagen peptides, optional
- 1–2 teaspoons honey or another sweetener, optional
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2–3 strawberries, sliced
- A small handful of blueberries or blackberries
- 1–2 cups ice
- 1–2 cups cold water, as needed
Step 1: Brew the Hibiscus Tea
Place hibiscus tea bags or dried hibiscus flowers in hot water and steep according to the package directions.
Allow the tea to cool completely. For an extra-cold refresher, refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Fruit
Wash the berries thoroughly.
Slice the strawberries and lemon into thin pieces.
Set some of the fruit aside for adding directly to the finished drink.
Step 3: Prepare the Protein Mixture
Add about 1 cup of the cooled hibiscus tea to a shaker bottle or blender.
Add the whey protein isolate and collagen peptides if using.
Shake or blend until completely smooth.
Tip: Don’t add protein powder directly to very hot tea, as it can become difficult to mix smoothly.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Pour the remaining hibiscus tea into a large pitcher.
Add the protein mixture, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar if using.
Stir well.
Taste and add a little honey or another sweetener if desired.
Step 5: Add the Berries
Add the sliced strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and lemon slices to the pitcher.
Gently stir to distribute the fruit.
Step 6: Chill
Add plenty of ice and refrigerate the refresher for about 20–30 minutes so the fruit can infuse the drink with extra flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Pour the berry hibiscus refresher into glasses filled with ice.
Add a few fresh berries and a lemon slice for an attractive finishing touch.
Helpful Tips
For a smoother drink, blend the berries with the hibiscus tea before adding the protein mixture and strain it if desired.
For a lower-calorie version, skip the honey and use unsweetened hibiscus tea.
If you’re using protein powder, check the package instructions for the appropriate serving size and amount of protein per serving.
Important: Although this drink can be relatively low in calories depending on the ingredients, it isn’t unlimited. Protein powder, honey, and other additions contribute calories, so portion size still matters if you’re tracking your intake.