By Melissa Pette


Holidays came and went in a flash, and boom 2025 is already here!


It’s time to shake the old off and start fresh.  Let’s get into that January reset mode.


Detox time, y’all!


Detox drinks don’t have to taste like crap. Actually, most of them are pretty tasty.


One glass every morning before a light breakfast will have you feeling like a brand-new person. But, if you’ve got any chronic conditions or allergies, check with your doctor first before trying any of these drinks.


Our good friends, Jane and William McLean, are sharing some of their favorite drink recipes with us today.


The McLeans are a couple in their 50s from Edmonton, Canada. They made the move to Costa Rica a few years ago and now live in Heredia.


Why Costa Rica? The McLeans said the weather, the culture, and the endless beauty are everywhere.


"Whether we’re talking food, housing, utilities, transportation, entertainment, school, personal care, health, or even clothes, Costa Rica is way cheaper than Canada," William says. "Since it’s so affordable more Canadians are coming here for a change of pace."


I couldn’t agree more with the McLeans.


So, let’s go to the kitchen!

Pineapple and mint water

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple, chopped.

• A handful of fresh mint leaves.

• 1 cucumber, sliced.

• 1-liter water.

• Ice cubes.

First, add pineapple, cucumber, and mint to a jug.

Fill the jug with water and let it sit in the fridge for 2–3 hours to infuse.

Add ice cubes before serving for a refreshing touch.

Mango and ginger smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe mango, peeled and chopped.

• 1/2 inch fresh ginger, grated.

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional).

• 1 cup coconut water.

• 1/2 cup spinach.

First, blend the mango, ginger, chia seeds, and spinach with coconut water until smooth.

Pour into a glass and enjoy the nutrient-packed smoothie.

Papaya and lime juice

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh papaya, cubed.

• Juice of 1 lime.

• 1 tablespoon honey or agave.

• 1 cup cold water or coconut water.

• A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional).

First, blend the papaya, lime juice, honey, and water together until smooth.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra detox kick and serve chilled.

These tropical drinks are packed with vitamins, enzymes, and hydration to help with detoxing!

Have a Pura Vida weekend!

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Everyone is invited to share their recipes with a horizontal photo of the dish by emailing  food@amcostarica.com. More Costa Rica's delightful recipes can be found on the AM Costa Rica Food page.