Description
A sweet-tart, no-fuss homemade lemonade made with ripe lemons, sugar, and optional herbs. Ideal for large gatherings, this refreshing beverage balances bold citrus flavor with customizable sweetness for a crowd-pleasing summer staple.
Ingredients
12–14 large organic lemons
1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
4 cups filtered water (for syrup)
12 cups filtered water (for base)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (optional; substitute basil or ginger)
Instructions
Roll lemons on the counter to loosen juice. Cut in half and juice, straining through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds/pulp.
In a saucepan, combine sugar and 4 cups water. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves completely. Let cool to room temperature.
In a pitcher, mix lemon juice (about 4 cups) with cooled syrup. Add 12 cups cold water and stir thoroughly.
Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving. Strain again if desired, and garnish with mint or lemon slices.
Notes
Adjust sugar to taste for health-conscious guests or stronger tartness.
Use chilled water for immediate serving after mixing.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitute lime juice for a citrus twist.
Vegan option: Use honey or agave nectar instead of granulated sugar.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Summer Desserts
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 96
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 10mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg