Summer’s Sweetest Refresher: A Glass of Fresh Lemonade
As the sun shines bright, there’s one thing that remains unbeaten – the joy of sipping on a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade. While neighborhood lemonade stands may be a rarity this year, you can still spread the citrusy love by sharing a batch with friends and family.
A Timeless Recipe
For those who need a refresher, we’ve got a foolproof recipe to get you started. This classic lemonade is a perfect blend of sweet and tangy, and can be tailored to your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 cups water, divided
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup ice
Directions:
- Create a simple syrup by combining sugar and 1 cup water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then let cool.
- Add lemon juice, ice, and remaining 5 cups water to a pitcher. Stir well.
- Add simple syrup 1/4 cup at a time, tasting as you go, until you reach your desired sweetness.
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Endless Possibilities
From here, the possibilities are endless. You can add a twist to your lemonade by incorporating liquor, fruits, syrups, or fresh herbs to create unique flavor profiles.
A Brief History of Lemonade
This iconic summer drink has its roots in India, where a drink called nimbu paani was made with sugarcane and lemons. As lemons traveled through Asia, they evolved into a concentrated version of lemonade, known as qatarmizat.
Get Creative with These Recipes!
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This refreshing drink combines cucumber and mint for a cooling mouthfeel. Add a shot of gin for an extra kick!
Kale Lemonade
This green take on classic lemonade swaps simple syrup for agave nectar and adds fresh kale and orange juice for a nutrient-packed twist.
Jalapeño Lemonade
For those who dare to spice things up, this recipe infuses jalapeño flavor into the simple syrup. Add a shot of tequila to tame the heat!
Mango Lemonade
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Strawberry Lemonade
The classic strawberry lemonade is a summer staple. Puree fresh strawberries and mix with lemonade for a refreshing treat. Keep a pitcher full in the fridge for whenever you need a pick-me-up!
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