Refreshing Lemonade from Scratch
A quick, easy, and budget-friendly homemade lemonade recipe using fresh lemons, sugar, and water. Perfectly balanced with a pinch of salt for a refreshing summer drink.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 14 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 medium-sized fresh lemons (about 1 cup or 240 ml lemon juice)
- 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
- 4 cups (1 liter) water (split between hot and cold)
- Ice cubes
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
- Optional: sparkling water (to replace half or all cold water)
Instructions
- Roll each lemon on the counter with your palm to soften it. Cut in half and extract the juice using a juicer or reamer. Remove any seeds. Aim for about 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh lemon juice. (Time: 5 minutes)
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (240 ml) hot water with 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. (Time: 5 minutes)
- Pour the lemon juice into a pitcher. Add the simple syrup and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to combine. (Time: 2 minutes)
- Add 3 cups (720 ml) of cold water and stir. Taste the lemonade and adjust by adding more water if too strong. (Time: 2 minutes)
- Add plenty of ice cubes and lemon slices if using. Garnish with fresh mint leaves. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days. (Time: 2 minutes)
Notes
Use fresh lemons for best flavor. Making a simple syrup prevents grainy texture. Add a pinch of salt to balance flavors. Taste and adjust sweetness or dilution as needed. Chill lemonade before adding ice to avoid dilution. Strain juice if you prefer pulp-free lemonade.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 fl oz (240 ml)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 10
- Carbohydrates: 24
Keywords: lemonade, homemade lemonade, refreshing drink, summer beverage, easy lemonade recipe, budget-friendly drink