Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler

Name: Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced; 1 lemon, juiced; 1 tablespoon honey (optional); 1 cup sparkling water; Ice cubes; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Speedy Plates

I absolutely love refreshing drinks, and this Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler has quickly become one of my favorites. The combination of sweet kiwi and tangy lemon creates a vibrant, zesty beverage that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up this delightful sparkler in minutes. It’s not only visually stunning but also delivers a burst of flavor that awakens the senses. Whether I'm serving it at a brunch or enjoying it on a sunny afternoon, this drink never fails to impress my guests and brighten my day.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-30T00:33:28.390Z

When I first created this Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler, I wanted to capture the essence of summer in a glass. The sweet and tangy flavor combo is something I stumbled upon while experimenting with different fruits. Fresh kiwi brings a unique tartness that's beautifully complemented by the zesty lemon juice. I also found that using sparkling water adds that extra effervescence without being overly sweet, keeping it refreshing and light.

This drink pairs wonderfully with light snacks or as a standalone refreshment. I recommend using ripe kiwis for the best flavor. If you want to elevate it, try garnishing with mint leaves for an aromatic touch that also adds a splash of color. I can guarantee it will be a hit!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant and refreshing flavor that revitalizes during any season
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients for quick enjoyment
Visually stunning presentation perfect for any gathering

The Role of Kiwi in Your Sparkler

Kiwi is the star ingredient in the Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler, imparting a naturally sweet and slightly tangy flavor profile that balances perfectly with the zesty lemon. The ripeness of the kiwi is crucial; choose vibrant green fruits that yield slightly to pressure for the best flavor. Overripe kiwis can lead to a mushy texture, while under ripe fruits may taste too tart, impacting the overall taste of your drink.

When mashing the kiwi, aim for a chunky puree rather than a smooth consistency. This texture not only adds visual interest but also enhances the drinking experience, giving you bursts of kiwi in every sip. If using a blender, pulse with caution; you want to maintain some texture to complement the effervescence of the sparkling water.

Perfecting the Lemon Juice Addition

Freshly squeezed lemon juice is vital for achieving the bright acidity that elevates the Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler. Bottled lemon juice lacks the vibrant flavor and can introduce preservatives, which may alter the drink's freshness. Juicing right before mixing ensures that you capture all the aromatic oils in the lemon zest, intensifying the overall flavor.

If you prefer less tartness, feel free to adjust the amount of lemon juice according to taste. I recommend starting with half the amount, tasting as you mix, and then gradually adding more until you hit just the right balance for your palate. You might also consider using pink lemons for a unique twist, which offer a slightly sweeter flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler:

Ingredients

2 ripe kiwis, peeled and diced
1 lemon, juiced
1 tablespoon honey (optional)
1 cup sparkling water
Ice cubes
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler:

Prepare the Kiwi

In a bowl, mash the diced kiwi with a fork until it becomes a chunky puree. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend it briefly in a blender.

Mix the Lemon Juice

Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey (if using) to the kiwi puree. Stir well to combine all the flavors together.

Assemble the Sparkler

In glasses, fill half full with ice cubes. Spoon the kiwi and lemon mixture into each glass, then top with sparkling water to fill them up.

Garnish and Serve

Garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve immediately while bubbly and enjoy the refreshing taste!

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, you can add other fruits like strawberries or a splash of lime juice to enhance the flavor profile further.

Serving Suggestions

This Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler is wonderfully versatile and can be served as a refreshing mocktail or enhanced with your favorite spirits for a more festive touch. If you’re entertaining adults, consider adding a splash of gin or vodka to each glass, which pairs beautifully with the existing flavors. Serve in highball glasses for a chic presentation, and don’t forget to garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or even a slice of lemon for that extra pop of color.

For a fun brunch idea, serve this sparkler alongside a fruit platter or pastries. The refreshing qualities of the drink complement sweet and savory dishes alike, making it a delightful addition to any menu. You can even prepare a pitcher in advance to allow the flavors to meld and serve during your gathering.

Make-Ahead Tips

While the Kiwi and Lemon Sparkler is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components in advance to streamline service. The kiwi puree can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent oxidation. The lemon juice can also be freshly squeezed ahead of time but try to use it within a day to avoid losing its bright flavor.

When ready to serve, simply mix the components with the sparkling water and ice. This approach keeps the bubbles intact so that the drink remains refreshing and effervescent. Preparing ahead like this minimizes stress and lets you enjoy more of your time with guests during the event.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this drink ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the kiwi and lemon mixture ahead, but add the sparkling water just before serving to retain its fizz.

→ Can I substitute sparkling water with another drink?

Yes! You can replace sparkling water with lemon-lime soda for a sweeter version or use tonic water for a more complex flavor.

→ Is this drink suitable for kids?

Absolutely! This is a non-alcoholic beverage that's perfect for kids and can easily be made without honey for a pure fruit flavor.

→ How do I ripen kiwis faster?

To ripen kiwis more quickly, place them in a paper bag with an apple or banana. The ethylene gas emitted will help speed up the process.