As the mercury rises, our bodies crave something to quench that thirst. In India and other parts of South Asia, there’s a traditional drink that’s been cooling people down for centuries: lassi! A yogurt-based beverage that can be sweet or savory, spiced or simple, lassi is the perfect accompaniment to hot summer days. With its creamy texture and tangy flavor, it’s no wonder why this ancient drink has become a staple in many Indian households.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 20 refreshing lassi recipes that are sure to beat the heat this summer. From classic sweet mango to spicy mint and cumin, and from rose and cardamom to strawberry yogurt, there’s something for everyone in this list of delicious drinks. Whether you’re looking for a fruity twist or a soothing sipper, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Sweet Mango Lassi
Beat the heat with this refreshing Indian drink that combines the sweetness of mangoes and the tanginess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, low-fat or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine mango, yogurt, and milk.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (depending on the speed of your blender)
Spicy Mint and Cumin Lassi
Beat the heat with this refreshing Indian-inspired drink that combines the cooling properties of mint with the warmth of cumin. This spicy twist on traditional lassi is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– Salt, to taste
– Ice cubes, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, water, mint leaves, cumin, ginger, and chili flakes.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Rose and Cardamom Lassi
A refreshing Indian drink that combines the sweet flavors of rose petals with the warm, aromatic spice cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yogurt (plain or flavored)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 cup rose syrup (or dried rose petals, soaked in water and strained)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, milk, honey, and cardamom. Blend until smooth.
2. Add rose syrup (or soaked rose petals) to the mixture and blend until well combined.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, add ice cubes to the mixture and blend until crushed.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep and chilling time included)
Strawberry Yogurt Lassi
Beat the heat with this refreshing and creamy Strawberry Yogurt Lassi, perfect for a hot summer day!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt (low-fat or non-fat)
– 1/2 cup strawberry puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, strawberry puree, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This lassi is ready in just a few minutes.
Yield: 1 serving (serves 2-3)
Banana and Honey Lassi
This creamy and sweet lassi recipe combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the soothing properties of honey, making it a perfect drink for hot summer days or as a post-workout refreshment.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel the bananas and add them to a blender with yogurt, milk, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as desired.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes for a chilled drink.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and serve.
Saffron and Pistachio Lassi
A refreshing twist on the classic Indian drink, this Saffron and Pistachio Lassi combines the subtle warmth of saffron with the crunch of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, milk, saffron mixture, and pistachios.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or flavor as desired.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Avocado and Coconut Lassi
Escape the heat with this refreshing twist on the classic Indian drink. This creamy lassi combines the richness of avocado, the creaminess of coconut milk, and a hint of sweetness to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Peel and pit the avocados, then blend with coconut milk until smooth.
2. Add yogurt, honey, and a pinch of salt. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This lassi is ready in no time.
Blueberry and Vanilla Lassi
Beat the heat with this refreshing drink that combines the sweetness of blueberries and the creaminess of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the yogurt, milk, and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the blueberries and blend until well combined and slightly crushed.
3. Add the vanilla extract and blend for another second or two, just to mix it in.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
5. Pour the lassi into glasses filled with ice cubes (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick and easy drink to prepare.
Chocolate and Almond Lassi
Beat the heat with this decadent drink that combines the richness of chocolate, the crunch of almonds, and the creaminess of yogurt. Perfect for a relaxing evening or a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, cocoa powder, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add milk and vanilla extract to the blender. Blend until well combined.
3. Stir in sliced almonds.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or chocolate level as desired.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes for a colder drink.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pineapple and Ginger Lassi
This refreshing drink is perfect for warm days or as a soothing beverage any time of the year. The combination of sweet pineapple, spicy ginger, and creamy yogurt creates a unique and delicious flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, pineapple juice, and grated ginger.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and add honey if desired for extra sweetness.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (all steps are preparation)
Peach and Basil Lassi
Cool down with this refreshing Indian-inspired drink that combines sweet peaches and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe peach, diced
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the peach, yogurt, milk, honey, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the chopped basil leaves and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or basil flavor to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Turmeric and Black Pepper Lassi
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of India with this refreshing Turmeric and Black Pepper Lassi.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the yogurt, turmeric, and black pepper.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add honey or sugar if desired for sweetness.
4. Taste and adjust the spice level to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes (if desired).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Pomegranate and Mint Lassi
A refreshing twist on traditional Indian yogurt drinks, this Pomegranate and Mint Lassi combines the tartness of pomegranate with the cooling essence of fresh mint. Perfect for a hot summer day or as a post-meal treat.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 1/4 cup freshly chopped mint leaves
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the yogurt, pomegranate juice, and mint leaves.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the honey and blend until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness to your liking.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately, garnished with additional mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes
Kiwi and Lime Lassi
Beat the heat with this revitalizing drink that combines the sweetness of kiwi with the zing of lime.
Ingredients:
• 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and chopped
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 1/2 cup milk
• Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
• Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine kiwi, yogurt, milk, and lime juice.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and add honey or sugar if desired.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 2-3
Enjoy your refreshing Kiwi and Lime Lassi!
Fig and Cinnamon Lassi
Rejuvenate with this sweet and spicy drink that combines the natural sweetness of figs with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup dried figs, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, milk, chopped figs, and honey. Blend until smooth.
2. Add ground cinnamon and blend for another second or until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes.
5. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1-2 people
Enjoy your refreshing Fig and Cinnamon Lassi!
Matcha and Yogurt Lassi
A refreshing twist on traditional Indian lassis, this recipe combines the brightness of matcha green tea with the creaminess of yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 teaspoons matcha powder
– 1/4 teaspoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, matcha powder, and sugar.
2. Add water to the blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or matcha intensity as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes to chill before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Papaya and Chia Seed Lassi
A refreshing and healthy drink that combines the benefits of papaya, chia seeds, and yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe papaya, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons chia seeds
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup water
– Honey or sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the chopped papaya, chia seeds, yogurt, and water.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding honey or sugar if desired.
4. Pour the lassi into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Carrot and Orange Lassi
A refreshing twist on traditional lassis, this Carrot and Orange Lassi is perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 large orange, peeled and segmented
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the grated carrot, orange segments, yogurt, milk, and honey.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the sweetness or consistency as needed.
4. Pour into glasses and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes to chill before serving.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep time: 2 minutes)
Date and Nutmeg Lassi
A refreshing twist on traditional lassi, this recipe combines the sweetness of dates with the warmth of nutmeg for a unique and delicious drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Fresh mint leaves or cardamom powder for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine yogurt, milk, and chopped dates. Blend until smooth.
2. Add ground nutmeg and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed by adding more dates or honey.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes, if desired.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of cardamom powder, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (blending time)
Servings: 1-2
Watermelon and Fennel Lassi
Beat the heat with this unique and revitalizing drink that combines the sweetness of watermelon with the anise flavor of fennel.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh fennel bulb
– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine watermelon, fennel, and yogurt. Blend until smooth.
2. Add honey and blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or anise flavor to your liking.
4. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes.
5. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1-2
Enjoy a refreshing glass of Watermelon and Fennel Lassi on a hot summer day!
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing lassi recipes! From classic sweet mango to spicy mint and cumin, there’s something for everyone. Try rose and cardamom for a floral twist or strawberry yogurt for a fruity treat. If you’re feeling adventurous, go for saffron and pistachio or avocado and coconut. For a sweet fix, banana and honey or blueberry and vanilla are perfect. And don’t miss the unique flavors like pineapple and ginger, peach and basil, or pomegranate and mint. With 20 recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find your new favorite drink!
