7 Curd-Based Summer Drinks To Relish At Home

When summer hits hard, and the mercury rises, there’s nothing more refreshing than a cool, creamy drink straight from the fridge. And if there’s one ingredient that truly shines during this season, it’s curd (dahi). Not only is it cooling and hydrating, but curd also aids digestion, boosts immunity, and is loaded with good bacteria.

Whether you’re craving something sweet, tangy, salty, or spicy, there’s a curd-based drink to match your mood. So ditch the fizzy sodas and whip up these 7 easy, delicious curd-based summer drinks at home.

Classic Salted Lassi (Namkeen Lassi)

Let’s start with the OG. This is a go-to in many Indian households during summer afternoons.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup curd
• 1½ cups chilled water
• ½ tsp roasted cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• A pinch of black salt
• Chopped mint or coriander (optional)

Method:

Blend all ingredients until frothy. Garnish with mint and a sprinkle of cumin. Serve chilled.

Why it’s great:

Hydrating, light on the stomach, and super easy to make. Great for post-lunch digestion!

Sweet Lassi

This is Punjab’s pride and possibly the best way to satisfy your sweet tooth without reaching for dessert.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup curd
• 1½ cups chilled water or milk
• 2–3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
• A few drops of rose water or cardamom powder
• Crushed nuts (optional)

Method:

Blend everything till smooth. Serve in a tall glass, topped with a few ice cubes and a sprinkle of cardamom or nuts.

Why it’s great:

It’s like dessert in a glass. Bonus: kids love it too.

Masala Chaas (Spiced Buttermilk)

A south Indian summer staple that’s packed with flavor and digestive benefits.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup curd
• 1½ cups water
• 1 green chili (optional)
• A few curry leaves
• ½ tsp ginger (grated)
• ½ tsp roasted cumin powder
• Salt to taste
• A pinch of asafoetida (hing)

Method:

Blend the curd and water first. Then crush the ginger, curry leaves, and chili together and mix into the drink. Strain if you prefer a smoother texture.

Why it’s great:

Spicy, refreshing, and perfect to cool you down while also fighting acidity.

Mango Lassi

It’s mango season — how could we leave this out?

Ingredients:

• 1 cup curd
• 1 cup chopped ripe mango (Alphonso works best)
• 2 tbsp sugar or honey
• A pinch of cardamom
• Ice cubes

Method:

Blend all ingredients until creamy. Garnish with mango chunks or a saffron strand.

Why it’s great:

A tropical treat that’s equal parts dessert and drink. Also a hit at summer parties!

Minty Pudina Chaas

This is the upgraded version of plain chaas, with a zesty green kick.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup curd
• 1½ cups cold water
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• ½ inch ginger
• Salt and black salt to taste
• ½ tsp roasted cumin powder

Method:

Blend everything until frothy. Strain if needed. Serve over ice.

Why it’s great:

Mint cools you from the inside out, while the ginger and cumin aid digestion. Super refreshing after spicy food!

Strawberry Yogurt Smoothie

A fruity, nutrient-rich option that feels like a café-style smoothie — minus the price tag.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup curd or thick yogurt
• ½ cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp honey
• A splash of milk (if needed to blend)
• Ice cubes

Method:

Blend until smooth. Garnish with a strawberry slice or chia seeds.

Why it’s great:

A great breakfast drink or evening cooler that’s packed with antioxidants and probiotics.

Beetroot Chaas (Pretty Pink Cooler)

If you like experimenting, this one’s a stunner — both visually and nutritionally.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup curd
• 1½ cups cold water
• ¼ cup cooked beetroot (grated or chopped)
• Salt to taste
• A pinch of black salt and cumin powder

Method:

Blend all the ingredients until smooth. Strain if you like, and serve with a mint leaf on top.

Why it’s great:

Detoxifying, vibrant, and rich in iron — this is summer glow in a glass!

Conclusion

Curd-based drinks are a triple win – they hydrate, nourish, and delight the taste buds. Whether you’re reaching for a tall glass post-lunch or need a quick, healthy refreshment on a hot afternoon, these recipes are easy to whip up and full of flavor. You can get your summer essentials directly from Milkbasket, your grocery delivery app.

So the next time the heat gets to you, skip the soda. Open the fridge, grab some curd, and blend your way to chilled bliss!