Looking for a drink to cool you down on a hot day? Mint lemonade is a classic, refreshing beverage that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines zesty lemons with cooling mint for a deliciously tangy and invigorating treat.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6)
- 4 large lemons (freshly squeezed, about 1 cup of juice)
- 1/2 cup sugar or honey (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Lemon slices and mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Lemon Base:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup water and the sugar or honey.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool.
- Alternatively, you can skip this step and dissolve sugar directly in the lemon juice if you’re in a rush.
Juice the Lemons:
- Roll the lemons on the counter to release their juices.
- Cut them in half and squeeze out the juice, straining to remove seeds and pulp.
Blend with Mint:
- In a blender, combine the fresh mint leaves, cooled sugar syrup, and lemon juice. Blend until the mint is finely chopped for an extra burst of flavor.
- If you prefer, you can muddle the mint in the lemon juice instead of blending for a lighter mint taste.
Combine and Mix:
- In a pitcher, mix the lemon-mint mixture with the remaining cold water. Stir well.
Serve:
- Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the mint lemonade over the ice.
- Garnish with lemon slices and mint sprigs if desired.
Variations
- Sparkling Mint Lemonade: Replace half the water with soda water or sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
- Berry Infused: Add a handful of blended or muddled raspberries or strawberries to the mix for a fruity flavor.
- Sugar-Free: Use stevia or your preferred sweetener instead of sugar.
