When the days are warm and you want a drink that feels both energising and relaxing, this pineapple and orange punch is the answer. It is full of bright tropical flavour, thanks to the natural sweetness of pineapple and the tangy depth of fresh orange juice. A touch of lemon brings balance, while mint and soda water turn it into a fizzy cooler that feels festive and fresh. This is the kind of drink that works beautifully at family brunches, garden gatherings or quiet afternoon breaks. It is easy to make, full of vitamin C and guaranteed to lift your mood. Choose ripe, juicy pineapples that smell fragrant near the base and feel slightly soft to the touch. Freshly squeezed orange juice will always bring the best flavour, but you can also use a good quality bottled one in a pinch.
Step 1: Juice the fresh pineapple and oranges
Start by cutting a medium ripe pineapple into chunks. Blend the pieces in a mixer with a splash of water until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove the fibres. You should get about one cup of fresh pineapple juice. Next, squeeze the juice from two to three sweet oranges until you have another cup of juice. If your oranges are slightly sour, that is even better as it will balance the sweetness of the pineapple. Combine the two juices in a large bowl or jug.
Step 2: Add lemon juice for brightness
To bring in a layer of sharpness and depth, squeeze in the juice of half a lemon. This cuts through the sweetness and brings the flavours together in a more lively way. Stir the mixture gently and taste it. You should feel a balance of sweet, tangy and lightly sour notes. If the drink tastes a little too tart, you can add a spoon of honey or simple syrup at this stage. Let the base rest for five to ten minutes to allow the flavours to mix properly.
Step 3: Infuse with fresh mint
Take a few fresh mint leaves and crush them lightly between your fingers to release their oils. Drop them into the punch base and give everything a stir. Let the mixture sit in the fridge for ten minutes so the mint infuses gently. This small step makes a big difference by adding freshness and a herbal note that cuts through the fruitiness without overpowering it.
Step 4: Add soda water and chill
Just before serving, add chilled soda water or sparkling mineral water to the juice base. Use a ratio of about two parts juice to one part soda, or adjust depending on how fizzy you want it. Stir gently to combine without flattening the bubbles. Pour the punch into a serving jug filled with ice cubes to keep it cold. You can also use frozen fruit cubes like orange segments or pineapple bits instead of ice for extra flair and flavour.
Step 5: Garnish and serve with joy
Pour the punch into tall glasses and garnish each one with a slice of orange, a wedge of pineapple or a sprig of mint. Add a paper straw or a stirrer for a festive touch. This punch is best served immediately while the soda is still bubbly and the flavours are at their freshest. It is a great alcohol free drink option that still feels special and well crafted.
The pineapple and orange punch is everything you want in a summer mocktail fresh, colourful, naturally sweet and packed with citrusy joy. With just a few ingredients and a simple five step process, you can bring a burst of tropical sunshine into your day. Whether you are hosting a group or simply treating yourself to a glass of goodness, this punch is a cheerful reminder that great drinks do not need to be complicated. One sip and you are instantly transported to a breezy tropical afternoon.