Introduction
Nothing says refreshment quite like a chilled glass of classic homemade lemonade. This recipe takes the traditional lemon-sugar-water trio and elevates it with a touch of fresh mint leaves, adding a cool, herbal note that makes every sip more invigorating. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, lounging in your backyard, or looking for a natural thirst-quencher on a hot afternoon, this drink will brighten your day.
It’s a timeless beverage that appeals to both kids and adults alike, and its balance of tart lemon, sweet sugar, and fragrant mint makes it a crowd favorite.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it is simple yet elegant—it proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something special. Just lemons, sugar, water, and mint, and you have a refreshing masterpiece.
What makes it even more lovable is how versatile it is. You can make it for everyday sipping, jazz it up for parties by serving in mason jars or pitchers with extra garnishes, or even use it as a mixer for cocktails.
The addition of mint leaves is what sets this recipe apart—it transforms regular lemonade into something cool, crisp, and spa-like. Every sip feels energizing, making it my go-to summer drink.
Why It’s a Must-Try Dish
This lemonade is a must-try because it’s:
- Healthier than store-bought – No artificial flavors, just natural goodness.
- Budget-friendly – Uses basic pantry and garden ingredients.
- Customizable – Adjust sweetness, tartness, or add fruits like strawberries or raspberries.
- Refreshing & hydrating – Perfect for quenching thirst on hot days.
- Elegant & crowd-pleasing – A beautiful drink to serve at parties, picnics, and gatherings.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 glasses
- Calories per serving: ~120 kcal (may vary depending on sugar quantity)
Cuisine and Course
- Cuisine: American (classic summer drink)
- Course: Beverage / Drink
Ingredients
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- 1 cup ice cubes (optional)
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves, lightly bruised to release oils
- Lemon slices (for garnish)
- Extra mint sprigs (for garnish)
Simple Directions
- Make a sugar syrup by mixing sugar and 1 cup of warm water until dissolved.
- Add lemon juice and remaining cold water. Stir well.
- Toss in mint leaves, gently pressing them to release flavor.
- Chill with ice cubes and garnish with lemon slices and mint sprigs.
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste.
Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation
- Prepare Lemons: Roll lemons on a counter to release juice, then cut and squeeze until you have 1 cup of lemon juice. Strain to remove seeds.
- Dissolve Sugar: In a small bowl or pitcher, stir sugar into 1 cup of warm water until fully dissolved (this creates a simple syrup, ensuring no gritty texture).
- Combine Base: In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, sugar syrup, and 3 cups of cold water. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness.
- Add Mint: Lightly bruise (press) mint leaves between your hands and add them to the pitcher. Stir gently.
- Chill & Serve: Add ice cubes, garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs, and serve in chilled glasses.
How to Serve
- Serve in tall glasses with plenty of ice.
- Garnish with a lemon wedge on the rim and a fresh mint sprig for a café-style presentation.
- Pair with light summer snacks like salads, sandwiches, or grilled dishes.
Additional Tips
- Roll lemons before juicing to extract maximum juice.
- If you like a fizzy twist, replace 1–2 cups of water with sparkling water.
- For extra flavor, add a few cucumber slices or ginger slices.
- Make ahead by preparing the lemon base (without mint and ice) and chilling it, then add mint and ice just before serving.
Variations
- Strawberry Lemonade – Blend strawberries and mix into the lemonade.
- Honey Lemonade – Replace sugar with honey for a healthier version.
- Spiced Lemonade – Add a pinch of ginger powder or cinnamon for warmth.
- Tropical Lemonade – Mix in pineapple or mango juice.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in the fridge (without ice) for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze lemonade in ice cube trays and use them to chill drinks without diluting flavor.
- Mint Note: Always add mint fresh before serving, as storing it too long may turn it bitter.
Special Equipment Needed
- Citrus juicer (manual or electric)
- Pitcher (large enough to hold 6 cups)
- Strainer (to remove seeds and pulp)
- Long stirring spoon
Conclusion
This Classic Lemonade with Fresh Mint Leaves is more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of summer, hospitality, and simple pleasures. Its refreshing taste, natural ingredients, and versatility make it a staple for every home. Whether you serve it at a party, sip it during a quiet afternoon, or mix it into cocktails, this lemonade will never disappoint. Cool, citrusy, and vibrant—it’s a timeless recipe worth making again and again!
Classic Lemonade with Fresh Mint Leaves
Description
Nothing says refreshment quite like a chilled glass of classic homemade lemonade. This recipe takes the traditional lemon-sugar-water trio and elevates it with a touch of fresh mint leaves, adding a cool, herbal note that makes every sip more invigorating.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare Lemons : Roll lemons on a counter to release juice, then cut and squeeze until you have 1 cup of lemon juice. Strain to remove seeds.
-
Dissolve Sugar : In a small bowl or pitcher, stir sugar into 1 cup of warm water until fully dissolved (this creates a simple syrup, ensuring no gritty texture).
-
Combine Base : In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, sugar syrup, and 3 cups of cold water. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness.
-
Add Mint : Lightly bruise (press) mint leaves between your hands and add them to the pitcher. Stir gently.
-
Chill & Serve : Add ice cubes, garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs, and serve in chilled glasses.
