As we age, finding small ways to stay healthy and feel energized becomes more important than ever. One simple and delicious way to support wellness? A homemade, sugar-free mocktail that’s as beautiful as it is refreshing.
This Sugar-Free Grapefruit Basil Kombucha Mocktail combines antioxidant-rich ingredients and herbal flavors in a way that’s easy to prepare, gentle on the body, and perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon. It’s even topped with butterfly pea flower shaved ice—an eye-catching, natural way to wow your guests or treat yourself.
Why Seniors Will Love This Mocktail
Low Sugar & Gut-Friendly: Kombucha supports digestion, while the sugar-free approach helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
Hydrating and Flavorful: Infused with citrus and herbs, this drink is both rejuvenating and full of flavor without the downsides of sugary sodas.
Fun and Simple to Make: Healthy beverages can be a fun and satisfying ritual, especially when the results are this vibrant.
Ingredients
Colored Ice
- 6 cups water, divided
- 1/4 cup dried pea flowers
Basil & Anise Syrup
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons McCormick Gourmet™ Organic Anise Seed
- 1 teaspoon McCormick® Basil Leaves
Grapefruit Kombucha
- 1 cup Basil & Anise Syrup, chilled
- 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, chilled
- 1 cup unflavored kombucha, chilled
- 1/4 cup cold water
To Serve
- 1 cup chilled seltzer water, divided
- 4 edible orchid flowers (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Make the Colored Ice
- Bring 1 cup of the water to a boil in a small saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add the dried pea flowers and steep until the flowers are fully hydrated and the water is tinted blue.
- Strain through a fine sieve and discard the flowers.
- Combine this blue water with the remaining 5 cups and stir well.
- Pour into ice cube trays and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Prepare the Basil & Anise Syrup
- Mix all syrup ingredients in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then remove from the heat.
- Let it stand for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to help dissolve the sugar.
- Strain through a fine sieve and cool to room temperature.
- Refrigerate until chilled.
3. Make the Grapefruit Kombucha Mix
- Mix the chilled Basil & Anise Syrup, grapefruit juice, unflavored kombucha, and cold water in a large glass measuring cup.
4. Serve the Drink
- Shave the frozen pea flower ice cubes using a food processor or ice shaver.
- Spoon 3/4 cup of shaved ice into the bottom of a glass.
- Gently place an edible orchid flower on top of the ice.
- Add another 1/4 cup of shaved ice over the flower to create a layered effect.
5. Finish and Enjoy
- Mix 3/4 cup of the Grapefruit Kombucha mixture in a separate container with 1/4 cup of chilled seltzer water.
- Pour over the shaved ice in the glass and serve immediately to enjoy the beautiful color-changing effect.
- Repeat for the remaining 3 servings.
How Home Instead Supports Healthy Aging
At Home Instead, we believe aging well includes the little things that brighten our days, like a nourishing drink shared with a friend. Our Care Pros support physical health and emotional well-being, helping with daily routines, grocery runs, meal prep, and even joining you for a refreshing drink like this one.
Whether you’re looking to stay independent at home or want help creating more moments of joy, Home Instead is here to help every step of the way.
Enjoy Life’s Simple Pleasures
This recipe isn’t just about hydration—it’s about celebrating life’s beauty and staying connected to what makes us feel good. So whether you're hosting friends or enjoying a quiet moment, let this sugar-free grapefruit basil kombucha remind you that healthy can be happy, too.
Ready to live well at home?
Book your free Care Consultation today with Home Instead. Our compassionate team is here to support your lifestyle with personalized care services designed just for you.
