Description
Ah, lemonade! Just the word conjures images of lazy summer afternoons, sunshine breaking through the trees, and kids running through sprinklers. If you’re looking for a quick solution to quench your thirst on a hot day or impress your friends at a gathering, this Refreshing Lemonade recipe is sure to hit the spot. Keep reading, and I promise we’ll have a zesty, cooling drink in your hands in no time!
Ingredients
Scale
Before we get into the fun part (making the lemonade!), here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, but who doesn’t love a touch of green?)
Instructions
- Juice Those Lemons: Start by squeezing those lemons until you’ve gathered a full cup of fresh lemon juice. Pro tip: Roll each lemon on the countertop first! This will help release more juice—trust me, your future self will thank you!
- Mix Sugar and Lemon Juice: In a pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice with a cup of sugar. Stir it thoroughly until the sugar dissolves. (Your kitchen may start smelling like heaven at this point—don’t say I didn’t warn you!)
- Add Water: Pour in the 4 cups of cold water and stir to mix. Now is the perfect time for a little taste test. Want it sweeter? Toss in a tad more sugar—it’s totally acceptable, and the sugar rush can be your little secret!
- Chill & Serve: Pop the pitcher in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let those flavors mingle. When ready to serve, pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves for that Insta-worthy look.
Notes
- Batch it Up: If you’re hosting a crowd, feel free to double the recipe! It’s a fantastic drink to make ahead of time, and it only gets better as it sits.
- Experiment: Don’t hesitate to add some fruit purees like strawberry or raspberry for a fun twist. Just think of it as lemonade’s fun cousin.
- Stay Cool, Literally: If you’re short on time and need chilled beverages quickly, pop the lemon juice in the freezer for a bit before mixing!