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New Delhi: There is something undeniably luxurious about biting into a fresh litchi on a hot summer afternoon. Beneath its rough pink shell lies translucent flesh that is fragrant, floral and bursting with sweet juice. While most of us enjoy litchis straight from the fruit bowl, the seasonal favourite deserves far more attention in the kitchen.

From cooling beverages and elegant desserts to refreshing salads and frozen treats, litchi can transform ordinary summer recipes into something memorable. Its delicate sweetness pairs beautifully with citrus fruits, coconut, mint, yoghurt and even mild spices, making it one of the most versatile fruits of the season.

If you’re looking for creative ways to make the most of litchi season before it disappears, these recipes deserve a place on your summer menu.

Litchi dishes to try at home Litchi Mint Cooler

Ingredients

• 20 fresh litchis, peeled and deseeded
• 10 mint leaves
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cups chilled water
• Ice cubes

Method to prepare:

Blend litchis, mint leaves and honey until smooth.

Add lemon juice and chilled water.

Blend briefly again.

Strain if desired.

Pour over ice and garnish with mint leaves.

Litchi Yoghurt Parfait

Ingredients

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 15 chopped litchis
• ¼ cup granola
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Mixed berries for topping

Method to prepare:

Layer yoghurt in a serving glass.

Add chopped litchis.

Sprinkle granola.

Repeat layers.

Drizzle honey on top and serve chilled.

Litchi Coconut Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 15 litchis, blended
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornflour
• Chopped pistachios

Method to prepare:

Heat coconut milk in a saucepan.

Mix cornflour with a little water and add.

Stir continuously until thickened.

Add blended litchi pulp and sugar.

Pour into serving bowls and chill for 3 hours.

Garnish with pistachios before serving.

Litchi Sorbet

Ingredients

• 25 peeled litchis
• Juice of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons honey

Method to prepare:

Blend all ingredients until smooth.

Pour into a shallow container.

Freeze for 4 to 5 hours.

Scrape with a fork every hour to create a fluffy texture.

Serve immediately.

Litchi Chia Pudding

Ingredients

• 1 cup almond milk
• 3 tablespoons chia seeds
• 12 chopped litchis
• 1 teaspoon honey

Method to prepare:

Mix almond milk, chia seeds and honey.

Refrigerate overnight.

Stir well the next morning.

Top with chopped litchis before serving.

Litchi season is fleeting, which is exactly what makes it special. Whether blended into a cooler, folded into creamy desserts or transformed into frozen treats, the fruit brings a touch of elegance and freshness to every recipe.