Variations on a Lemonade

Elevate your summer refreshment game with "Variations on a Lemonade," a versatile recipe that transforms the classic lemonade into a vibrant medley of creative flavors. Starting with a base of freshly squeezed lemon juice, homemade simple syrup, and crisp water, this recipe offers endless possibilities with optional add-ins like juicy strawberries, fragrant basil, zesty lime, or even floral lavender. Whether you prefer the delightful fizz of sparkling blueberry lemonade or the herbaceous notes of mint or basil, these variations are perfect for backyard gatherings, picnics, or simply cooling off on a sunny day. Ready in just 20 minutes, this refreshing drink serves as a customizable canvas to suit every palate. Embrace the season and let your creativity flow with these invigorating lemonade twists!

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:5 mins

Total Time:20 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 6 whole Fresh lemons
• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 5 cups Water
• 2 cups Ice cubes
• 1 cup Strawberries (optional for variation)
• 6 leaves Fresh basil leaves (optional for variation)
• 6 leaves Fresh mint leaves (optional for variation)
• 1 teaspoon Lavender flowers (optional for variation)
• 2 tablespoons Lime juice (optional for variation)
• 1 cup Blueberries (optional for variation)
• 2 cups Sparkling water (optional for variation)

Directions

Step 1

Begin by preparing the lemonade base: juice the lemons to yield approximately 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp for a smoother drink.

Step 2

Create a simple syrup by combining 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar fully dissolves. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 3

In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, and the remaining 4 cups of water. Stir well.

Step 4

Add 2 cups of ice to the pitcher to chill the lemonade or serve over ice in individual glasses.

Step 5

For strawberry basil variation: Blend 1 cup of fresh strawberries with a little bit of lemonade until smooth. Add the strawberry puree and 6 fresh basil leaves to the pitcher, muddling the basil slightly to release its flavor. Stir and serve.

Step 6

For mint lime variation: Replace 2 tablespoons of the lemon juice with lime juice. Add 6 fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle slightly to release the minty aroma. Stir and serve.

Step 7

For lavender lemonade variation: Steep 1 teaspoon of dried lavender flowers in the simple syrup as it cooks. Strain out the flowers before combining the syrup with the pitcher of lemonade. Stir and serve.

Step 8

For sparkling blueberry variation: Add 1 cup of fresh blueberries to the pitcher and muddle them slightly to release their juices. Replace 2 cups of water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist. Stir gently and serve immediately.

Step 9

Feel free to experiment with additional combinations of fruits and herbs to create your unique version of lemonade!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3094.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1035.1

Total Fat 2.1g	0%
Saturated Fat 0.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 47.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 275.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 17.8g	0%
Total Sugars 236.0g
Protein 6.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 214.8mg	0%
Iron 3.7mg	0%
Potassium 911.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 1.6%

Protein: 2.3%

Carbs: 96.0%