Beverages

Kefir is often made with various kinds of dairy or nondairy milks, but it can also be easily made from water or coconut water. (This recipe is adapted from www.culturesforhealth.com, which is also a good source of kefir grains.)

Kombucha is a tasty probiotic drink. You can also make this with black tea (but not flavored or decaf tea), fruit juices, and chopped fresh fruit and herbs.

Use these syrups and bitters to flavor your mocktails, or make your own refreshing soda by mixing them with fizzy water.

Rich and creamy, this drink is a nice alternative to traditional Black or White Russians.

For variety, try adding a few crushed juniper berries.

Conventional martinis are elegant, but all alcohol. This booze-free version is refreshing and packed with plenty of antioxidants.

Like your drinks tart? Use 100 percent cranberry juice instead of the pomegranate juice.

Lovely on its own, this drink can also be used to flavor other cocktails, sparkling juices, or even wine.

The sparkling water in this recipe allows you to adjust the sweetness to suit your preference.

The traditional Cuban mojito is made with mint. Here, we add Thai basil to give it an exotic twist. (If you can’t find Thai basil, use regular basil; it’s a different flavor but still delicious.)

Perfect for brunch or even an afternoon snack, this drink of freshly juiced veggies is nourishing and satisfying.

Sangria is a colorful and festive punch that’s traditionally made with red wine and brandy. This alcohol-free version is just as flavorful and perfect for people of all ages. Blood oranges are a great substitute for regular oranges.

If you’re feeling especially celebratory, serve this tropical drink in a tiki glass or with a paper-umbrella garnish.

This concoction is as refreshing as a spa drink and as fancy as a cocktail.

For a classic presentation, salt the edge of your glasses by running a lime wedge around the rim and rolling in kosher salt.

The elegance of a martini meets the energizing effect of green tea. Use a mandoline or vegetable peeler to thinly shave the gingerroot for garnish.

Making your own almond milk is a breeze in the blender. Pitted dates add a subtle flavor and sweetness but are not necessary. For variety, try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla to your milk.

This comforting cool-weather drink is a vegan, dairy-free, homemade alternative to the pumpkin-spice lattes that crop up at coffee shops each fall.

A dark hot chocolate recipe that leverages the healthful benefits of fenugreek.

An uexpected green smoothie recipe that senior editor Laine Editor just had to pass along.

Laine Bergeson shares her super simple recipe for homemade almond milk.