A mesmerizing blue mocktail that sparkles and shimmers like the ocean’s surface. This Mermaid
As I discovered while developing my ocean-inspired recipe collection, anything azure blue with a touch of shimmer instantly transports you to magical oceanic realms.
After spotting this wellness trend taking over juice bars and cafés everywhere, I simply had to craft my own version (and hello, it’s perfect timing with summer pool parties just around the corner!). Health-focused establishments might call it Blue Spirulina Water, but I prefer Mermaid Lemonade. Much more enchanting, wouldn’t you agree?
Have you tried the new blue spirulina drinks everyone’s talking about? I recently experienced one at a downtown juice bar and was CAPTIVATED by the vibrant color. The fact that it incorporated natural ingredients was even more intriguing, so I thought—why not add cotton candy and luster dust to elevate an already gorgeous blue drink? Sure, you could skip these elements if you’re looking for something simpler, but the theatrical dissolving cotton candy creates an experience your guests won’t forget.
After a long day in the summer heat, our bodies crave refreshment and hydration. My wellness routine completely transformed (and my skin improved too) when I started drinking blue-infused waters that double as hydrating treats. I aim for drinks that are visually stunning but require minimal effort—this recipe checks both boxes perfectly. I serve these in tall glass jars (or these gorgeous mermaid tail tumblers I found at a local boutique) rather than using disposable drinkware that harms our oceans (appropriate, given our mermaid theme!).
When I don’t drink enough water throughout the day, I notice it immediately in my energy levels and skin texture. Now, my friends actually ask for my Mermaid Lemonade recipe after trying it just once!
About This Recipe
Creating this enchanting Mermaid Lemonade requires no specialty equipment—no blenders, juicers, or fancy tools needed. It doesn’t demand any magical powers or siren-like singing abilities. That reminds me of my sister when Disney’s The Little Mermaid was popular. She hummed THAT ICONIC MELODY constantly until our entire family could recite it in our sleep. The tune still occasionally floats through my mind… ear worm alert!
What You Need
Pineapple Juice: Store-bought is perfectly fine and consistently available year-round.
Orange Juice: Fresh-squeezed makes a noticeable difference in brightness and flavor.
Blue Spirulina: This vibrant blue superfood powder derives from blue-green algae and provides a gorgeous natural color. Unlike its green counterpart, blue spirulina has a very mild taste that disappears in fruity drinks.
Lemonade: Homemade elevates the drink, but premium store-bought options like Newman’s Own work wonderfully too.
Blue Cotton Candy: While optional, this element transforms the presentation. Find it at grocery stores, party supply shops, or online retailers. Pink works too, though it changes the final color slightly.
Turquoise Luster Dust: This edible decorating powder adds magical shimmer. Find it in baking supply sections or specialty stores. Remember that food-grade luster dust differs from non-edible craft glitter.
Pineapple Wedge and Cherry, for garnish: Skewer these together for a tropical accent that perfectly complements the oceanic blue drink.
Add Sparkle!
Luster dust is a fun ingredient for this drink, cake decorating, and more! This particular one comes in a pack of eight colors.
How
to Make It
to Make It- You’ll want a tall glass for this pretty Mermaid Lemonade. This recipe makes one drink but it’s easily doubled or tripled. Keep reading for instructions on how to make a pitcher.
- Make sure all the ingredients are well chilled. You’ll be stirring in ice at the end so have ice on hand. Prepare the pineapple garnish.
- Add the pineapple juice, orange juice, blue spirulina, and lemonade to each glass. If you like more of an ombre effect, begin with the blue spirulina at the bottom.
- Spoon a bit of luster dust into the center of a small piece of cotton candy and gently wrap the cotton candy around it, shaping it into a small ball. Drop the cotton candy into the glass. It will dissolve quickly, releasing the luster. Give the drink a gentle stir to reveal the magical shimmer, then top with a bit of ice and add the garnish. The drink will shimmer when stirred but will settle if it sits.
- So pretty and so sweetly refreshing!
How to make this drink your own
- If desired, omit the cotton candy and luster dust.
- For lots of luster, increase the amount to 1/2 teaspoon. I don’t recommend more than that.
- Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, more bubbly drink.
- For added health benefits, include a teaspoon of coconut vinegar, which adds a subtle tangy note.
Make-Ahead Ideas
Make a pitcher of Mermaid Lemonade and chill it in the fridge until it’s party time. For 8 servings, add to pitcher: 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup orange juice, 1-2 teaspoons blue spirulina powder (adjust for desired color intensity), and 4 cups lemonade. Prepare garnishes and cotton candy balls.
When ready to serve, continue with recipe directions, making luster dust/cotton candy balls, and adding ice. Encourage guests to add their own cotton candy balls. They’ll love watching the candy dissolve, revealing the luster dust.
Why Blue Spirulina?
Blue spirulina is a superfood from the sea! Unlike its green cousin that has a strong taste, blue spirulina offers a gorgeous color with minimal flavor impact, making it perfect for beverages.
You don’t need to add a ton of blue spirulina because a little goes a long way. I only add about 1/4 teaspoon per drink, but feel free to adjust to your desired intensity of blue!
Aside from its stunning color, blue spirulina provides:
- Antioxidant properties
- Phycocyanin (the blue pigment with health benefits)
- Natural coloring without artificial dyes
- Trace minerals
More refreshing drinks
Drinks can inspire so much creativity. Have fun combining juices, natural colorings, and beautiful garnishes. Looking for new glassware? Try your local thrift shop for inexpensive or unique finds. Here’s a few recipes to get you started:
Print
Mermaid Lemonade
Description
A sweet and fruity mocktail, shimmering blue Mermaid Lemonade is perfect for summer parties and special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 ounces pineapple juice
- 1 ounce orange juice, fresh squeezed
- 1/4 teaspoon blue spirulina powder
- 4 ounces prepared lemonade
- 4-inch round piece blue cotton candy (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon turquoise luster dust (optional)
- Ice
- Pineapple wedge for garnish
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Chill all ingredients. Add the pineapple juice, orange juice, blue spirulina, and lemonade to a tall glass.
- Spoon the luster dust into the center of the cotton candy and gently wrap the cotton candy around it, shaping it into a ball. Drop the ball into the drink and let it dissolve.
- Give the drink a stir to reveal the shimmer, then top with ice and add garnishes.
Notes
Pitcher: For 8 servings, add to pitcher: 1 cup pineapple juice, 1/2 cup orange juice, 1-2 teaspoons blue spirulina powder, and 4 cups lemonade. Chill. When ready to serve, continue with recipe directions, making luster dust/cotton candy balls, and adding ice. Encourage guests to add their own cotton candy balls. They’ll love watching the candy dissolve, revealing the luster dust.
If desired, omit the cotton candy and luster dust. For lots of luster, increase the amount to 1/2 teaspoon. I don’t recommend more than that.
Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, more bubbly drink.
Prep Time: 5 minutesTotal Time: 5 minutesServings: 1 drink