Best Homemade Lemonade, Ingredients, Recipe
Lemonade is a refreshing drink made primarily from lemon juice, water, and a sweetener such as sugar or honey. It's known for its tangy and sweet flavor, which makes it a popular choice, especially in the summer. Here are the key components of lemonade:
Meenu Rapria 
Using fresh lemons ensures the lemonade is free from artificial flavors, preservatives, and additives, offering a more natural and healthier beverage option. Lemonade is an excellent source of hydration, particularly during hot weather. The combination of water and the electrolytes found in lemon juice helps to keep the body hydrated and replenished. Homemade lemonade can be easily customized to suit individual tastes and dietary needs. For example, you can use honey or stevia as alternative sweeteners, or add herbs and fruits for additional flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 145
- Carbs: 38g
- Protein: Protein
Directions
Making lemonade at home is simple and refreshing. Here's a classic recipe for homemade lemonade:
Prepare the Lemon Juice:
- Roll the lemons on the countertop to make them easier to juice.
- Cut the lemons in half and juice them using a juicer or by hand.
- Pour the juice through a strainer to remove any seeds and pulp.
Make the Simple Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Remove from heat and let it cool. This is your simple syrup.
Mix the Lemonade:
In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the simple syrup.
Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water and stir well.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to let it chill.
Serve over ice cubes in glasses.
Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves if desired.
Tips:
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste.
For a fizzy version, replace some or all of the water with sparkling water.
Add a few crushed berries (like raspberries or strawberries) for a fruity twist.
