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Lemonade Recipe

This fresh homemade lemonade recipe is the perfect refreshing drink for warm days. Made with freshly squeezed lemons, sugar, and cold water, it creates a classic balance of sweet and tart flavors. This easy lemonade takes only a few minutes to prepare and tastes far better than store-bought versions. Serve it chilled over ice with lemon slices or fresh mint for a bright, refreshing summer beverage everyone will love.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beverage, Drink
Cuisine: American, International
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 5–6 lemons
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 –5 cups cold water
  • 1 cup ice cubes
  • Lemon slices for garnish
  • Fresh mint leaves optional garnish

Equipment

  • Citrus juicer or lemon reamer
  • Pitcher
  • Measuring cups
  • Small saucepan
  • Spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

Step 1: Juice the Lemons
  1. Roll the lemons on the counter with your palm to soften them. Cut them in half and squeeze the juice using a citrus juicer. Remove any seeds.
Step 2: Make the Simple Syrup
  1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar with 1 cup of water. Heat gently while stirring until the sugar completely dissolves. Let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Mix the Lemonade
  1. In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice and the simple syrup.
Step 4: Add Water
  1. Pour in the remaining cold water and stir well to combine.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste the lemonade and adjust the flavor by adding more water if it is too strong or more sweetener if desired.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Add ice to glasses and pour the lemonade over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 120kcal

Notes

  • Use fresh lemons for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice does not give the same bright citrus taste.
  • Simple syrup prevents grainy lemonade by dissolving the sugar completely.
  • Adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or honey to taste.
  • For a fizzy variation, replace some of the water with sparkling water.
  • Store leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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