As the temperature rises and the sun beats down, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing glass of lemonade to quench your thirst. But why settle for just any ordinary lemonade when you can create something truly special? This summer, mix things up with 18 deliciously different lemonade recipes that incorporate everything from sweet strawberries to spicy jalapeños.
From classic homemade lemonade to more unique twists like sparkling lavender and cucumber lemonade, we’ve got a recipe to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink to enjoy on its own or one to pair with your favorite summer foods, these lemonades are sure to hit the spot.
Stay tuned as we dive into our collection of 18 refreshing lemonade recipes, perfect for making this summer a little brighter and a lot more delicious!
Classic Homemade Lemonade
Brighten up your summer days with this refreshing classic homemade lemonade recipe. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this sweet and tangy drink is perfect for hot weather gatherings or everyday enjoyment.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Strawberry Lemonade
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy strawberry lemonade recipe that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, muddle the sliced strawberries with a spoon or a strawberry masher to release their natural juices and pulp.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir until well combined.
3. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Add the water and stir until the mixture is smooth.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve the strawberry lemonade over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and chill.
Sparkling Lavender Lemonade
This Sparkling Lavender Lemonade is a unique and delicious twist on traditional lemonade, with the added charm of lavender’s floral flavor. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique drink to serve at your next outdoor party.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 liter sparkling water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Add the dried lavender buds to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into another pitcher, discarding the lavender buds.
5. Add the sparkling water to the pitcher and stir gently.
6. Serve the Sparkling Lavender Lemonade over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Minty Fresh Lemonade
Quench your thirst with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade, infused with the coolness of mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh mint leaves.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time), 30 minutes (chilling time)
Watermelon Lemonade
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy drink that combines the flavors of watermelon and lemonade. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick pick-me-up on a hot day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
3. Add the blended watermelon to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Add the water and stir until combined.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Enjoy your refreshing Watermelon Lemonade!
Blueberry Basil Lemonade
This refreshing drink combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemonade and a hint of savory basil. Perfect for hot summer days or as a unique twist on traditional lemonade.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh blueberries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine blueberries and lemon juice. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add water and stir well to combine.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
6. Serve over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Peach Lemonade
Revitalize your summer with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade! Sweet and tangy peaches add a delightful flavor dimension to this thirst-quenching drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh peaches, diced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine peach slices and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add water and stir well.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve cold with ice cubes.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep), 30 minutes (chilling)
Raspberry Lemonade
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy twist on classic lemonade, featuring the tartness of raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, combine the raspberry puree, lemon juice, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with additional raspberries or lemon slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just chill and serve.
Ginger Lemonade
Beat the heat with this revitalizing ginger lemonade recipe! A perfect blend of citrusy sweetness and spicy warmth, this drink is sure to quench your thirst and lift your spirits.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger juice (or 2-3 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add in water and stir well to combine.
3. Grate the fresh ginger and add it to the pitcher. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with a slice of lemon, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Cucumber Lemonade
A refreshing twist on traditional lemonade, this cucumber-infused drink is perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and water.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the pitcher and let them steep for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the cucumber slices.
4. If desired, add sugar to taste and stir until dissolved.
5. Fill glasses with ice and pour the Cucumber Lemonade over the ice.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (steeping time)
Yield: Serves 6-8
Pineapple Lemonade
Refresh yourself with this sweet and tangy drink, perfect for hot summer days. This Pineapple Lemonade recipe combines the juiciness of pineapple with the brightness of lemon, creating a refreshing treat that’s sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh pineapple chunks
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine pineapple chunks and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add water and stir until well combined.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Pineapple Lemonade over ice cubes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold drink recipe.
Lemonade Iced Tea
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on classic iced tea. This sweet and tangy lemonade iced tea is perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday sipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Earl Grey or English Breakfast)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups cold brewed tea (cooled)
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes, then remove tea bags.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
4. Add cooled brewed tea to the lemon mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the lemonade tea over ice cubes in a large pitcher or individual glasses.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus steeping time)
Enjoy your refreshing Lemonade Iced Tea!
Spicy Jalapeño Lemonade
Rev up your summer with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade! This spicy jalapeño infused drink is perfect for hot days and outdoor gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves or lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the chopped jalapeños to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the heat from the peppers to meld with the lemonade.
3. After infusion, remove the jalapeños and add the water to the pitcher. Stir well to combine.
4. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon slices, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a simple infusion that requires no cooking time.
Honey Lemonade
This classic summer drink gets a sweet twist with the addition of honey, creating a refreshing and thirst-quenching treat perfect for hot days. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this delicious honey lemonade in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup honey
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and water until well combined.
2. Add the honey to the pitcher and stir until it’s fully dissolved.
3. Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
4. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, if preferred.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to drink as soon as you mix it up.
Lemonade Slushie
Beat the heat with this easy-to-make Lemonade Slushie recipe! This sweet and tangy drink is perfect for hot summer days or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup ice cubes
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
3. Add ice cubes and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, add salt and stir well to combine.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This slushie is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your refreshing Lemonade Slushie!
Rosemary Lemonade
Elevate your lemonade game with the bright, herbaceous flavor of rosemary! This refreshing drink is perfect for warm weather or as a unique twist on a classic summer sipper.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the chopped rosemary leaves to the pitcher and stir gently to combine.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Rosemary Lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with additional rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Lemonade with a Twist of Lime
Brighten up your day with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade. This recipe combines the tartness of lemons and limes for a unique and invigorating drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon and lime juices until well combined.
2. Add sugar to the pitcher and stir until dissolved.
3. Add water to the pitcher and stir well.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (preparation time) + chilling time
Cherry Lemonade
Brighten up your summer days with this refreshing Cherry Lemonade recipe! Made with fresh cherries, lemons, and a hint of sweetness, this drink is perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cherry juice (100% fruit juice)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cherries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together cherry juice and lemon juice until well combined.
2. Add sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add water and stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh cherries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing lemonade recipes! From classic homemade to sparkling lavender and fruity strawberry, there’s something for everyone. Try our unique twists like minty fresh, watermelon, blueberry basil, peach, raspberry, ginger, cucumber, pineapple, and more. Even add a little spice with jalapeño or a hint of herbs like rosemary and basil. Whether you prefer sweet and simple or bold and adventurous, these 18 lemonade recipes are sure to quench your thirst all summer long.
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