Classic Lemonade with Crazy-Good Twists
This Zesty Lemonade with a Fresh Twist takes the classic lemonade recipe and adds a burst of flavor with exciting new ingredients. Whether it’s a splash of berries, a hint of fresh herbs, or a touch of ginger, this refreshing drink will keep you cool and satisfied on warm days. It’s perfect for outdoor parties, family gatherings, or whenever you need something refreshing with a little extra flair.
Ingredients
- For Classic Lemonade:
- 8 –10 juicy lemons 1.5 cups fresh lemon juice
- ¾ cup sugar white, brown, or coconut
- 4 cups water 1 cup hot for syrup + 3 cups cold
- Ice crushed or cubed
- Optional Twist Add-Ins:
- Fruit: 1 cup strawberries peaches, or blackberries (fresh or frozen)
- Herbs: 5 mint basil, or thyme leaves
- Spices: 1 tsp turmeric cayenne, or cinnamon
- Sweeteners: Honey or agave to taste
- Sparkling Water: For a fizzy touch
Instructions
- Juice the Lemons: Roll and squeeze lemons to extract 1.5 cups of juice. Microwave lemons for 15 seconds to get more juice.
- Make Simple Syrup: In a saucepan, mix ¾ cup sugar with 1 cup hot water. Stir over low heat until dissolved.
- Combine & Adjust: Mix lemon juice, simple syrup, and 3 cups cold water in a pitcher. Stir well and taste. Adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
- Add a Fun Twist (Optional):
- Mash 1 cup berries and strain into the lemonade.
- Add bruised herbs or spices for extra flavor.
- Mix in sparkling water for fizz.
- Serve: Pour over ice and garnish with lemon slices or edible flowers.
Notes
- You can customize the flavors based on what you have on hand – experiment with other fruits like mango or watermelon for a fresh twist.
- For a sweeter version, adjust the amount of sugar in the simple syrup to taste.