Classic Fresh Squeezed Lemonade Recipe
A quick and easy refreshing summer drink made with fresh lemons, sugar, and water, perfect for any occasion and loved by all ages.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 medium fresh lemons (about 1 cup / 240 ml lemon juice)
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 5 cups (1.2 liters) cold water
- Ice cubes
- Optional: pinch of lemon zest
- Optional: fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the sugar syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar with 1 cup (240 ml) water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool.
- Juice the lemons: Roll each lemon firmly on the counter to loosen juices. Slice in half and use a citrus juicer to extract about 1 cup (240 ml) of lemon juice. Strain the juice through a fine mesh strainer to remove seeds and pulp if desired.
- Mix lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup and lemon juice. Add 4 cups (960 ml) of cold water and stir well. Taste and adjust by adding more water if too tart or more syrup if sweeter.
- Chill: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld and cool thoroughly. Alternatively, add plenty of ice cubes right before serving.
- Serve: Pour into glasses filled with ice. Garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint.
Notes
Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor. Dissolve sugar in warm water to avoid gritty texture. Roll lemons before juicing to maximize juice yield. Adjust sweetness gradually. Chill lemonade for at least 30 minutes for best taste. Add a pinch of salt to brighten flavors if needed. For sparkling lemonade, replace some water with club soda before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (8 oz / 240 ml
- Calories: 90110
- Sugar: 24
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 25
- Fiber: 0.3
Keywords: lemonade, fresh squeezed lemonade, summer drink, refreshing drink, easy lemonade recipe, homemade lemonade