What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade lemonade is the perfect thirst-quasher for hot days, with its bright, tangy flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up with just a few simple ingredients.
- Refreshing & Customizable – Adjust the sweetness or tartness to suit your taste, making it your ideal glass of sunshine.
- Quick & Easy – Ready in minutes, no fancy tools needed—just lemons, sugar, water, and a little stirring.
- Crowd-Pleasing – A classic favorite that everyone enjoys, whether at picnics, parties, or just relaxing at home.
Recipe
There’s nothing quite as invigorating as a glass of homemade lemonade on a hot summer day. This straightforward recipe combines fresh lemons, sugar, and water to create a classic beverage that’s both tart and sweet.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water (for the syrup)
- 4-6 lemons (enough for 1 cup of lemon juice)
- 4 cups cold water (to dilute)
- Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions
- Make the syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Juice the lemons: Roll the lemons on the counter to soften them, then cut and squeeze to extract 1 cup of juice. Strain to remove seeds and pulp if desired.
- Combine: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled syrup, lemon juice, and 4 cups of cold water. Stir well.
- Serve: Pour over ice cubes in glasses and garnish with lemon slices or mint if desired.
Notes
– Adjust the sweetness or tartness by adding more sugar or lemon juice to taste.
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Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Juicer or citrus squeezer
- Pitcher
- Strainer (optional)
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 6-8
Nutrition
Homemade lemonade is an invigorating drink that also provides essential nutrients. While simple, it contains a few nutritional benefits worth noting.
Calories: 99 kcal
Sodium: 2 mg
Potassium: 90 mg
Carbohydrates: 26 g
Sugars: 24 g
Vitamin C: 38 mg
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade lemonade with a fresh fruit platter, as the sweet and tangy flavors complement each other perfectly. For something savory, I’ll grab crackers, cheese, or even a plate of mini sliders—they balance the lemonade’s zesty kick. These combos make any gathering feel special without much effort.
Fresh Fruit Platter
When I’m whipping up a pitcher of homemade lemonade, I love pairing it with a fresh fruit platter because it’s simple, invigorating, and adds a burst of color to the table. I usually include slices of watermelon, pineapple, and strawberries for their juicy sweetness, alongside blueberries and grapes for a pop of tartness. Adding citrus fruits like oranges or tangerines keeps the theme zesty and revitalizing. For a fun touch, I’ll sometimes toss in kiwi or mango slices. The fruit’s natural flavors complement the lemonade perfectly, making every bite and sip feel like a sunny summer afternoon.
Savory Snack Pairings
While fresh fruit pairs wonderfully with lemonade, sometimes you might want something a bit more savory to balance the sweetness. I love pairing my homemade lemonade with crispy cheese straws or a handful of salted nuts—they add just the right crunch and saltiness. A plate of hummus and pita chips works great too, offering a creamy contrast. If you’re feeling fancy, try mini quiches or savory scones; their buttery richness complements the tangy drink perfectly. Even simple pretzels or popcorn sprinkled with herbs can elevate your snack game. The key is balancing flavors so each bite keeps you coming back for another sip.
