Summer just got a whole lot sweeter! As the sun beats down, there’s nothing like a glass of cold, refreshing lemonade to quench your thirst and lift your spirits. And why settle for just one flavor when you can try them all? From classic homemade to fruity twists and even savory variations, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering lemonade recipes to keep you cool and satisfied all season long.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet and tangy or tart and zesty, there’s something on this list for everyone. And the best part? Most of these recipes are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and a bit of creativity. So go ahead, grab some lemons (and maybe a few other fun flavors), and get ready to turn up the heat on your summer with our ultimate guide to refreshing lemonade recipes!
Classic Homemade Lemonade
There’s nothing quite like a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade on a hot summer day. This classic recipe is a staple for any backyard barbecue or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 6-8 lemons)
– 1 cup 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. Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
4. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Enjoy your classic homemade lemonade!
Strawberry Lemonade
Quench your thirst with this sweet and tangy homemade strawberry lemonade, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slices or strawberry wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the strawberries with 1/2 cup of sugar until smooth.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove seeds and pulp.
3. Add the lemon juice and remaining 1/2 cup of sugar to the pitcher. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
4. Add water to the pitcher and stir well to combine.
5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices or strawberry wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Mint Lemonade
This classic summer drink combines the cooling essence of mint with the tangy sweetness of lemonade, perfect for hot days and gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, gently press the mint leaves with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
2. Add the lemon juice, sugar, and water to the pitcher. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the lemonade over ice cubes and garnish with additional mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready to serve.
Sparkling Lemonade with Rosemary
Elevate your summer gatherings with this unique and refreshing twist on classic lemonade, infused with the herbaceous flavor of rosemary. This sparkling drink is perfect for hot days, outdoor parties, or as a unique twist on a brunch cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup sparkling water
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Ice cubes
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. Stir in chopped rosemary leaves.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, add sparkling water and stir gently.
6. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with additional rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None (simply mix and chill)
Blueberry Lavender Lemonade
Escape the ordinary with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade. Sweet blueberries and subtle lavender notes will transport you to a sunny summer day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until dissolved.
2. Add water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Add dried lavender buds to the mixture and let it steep 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. In a blender or food processor, puree blueberries until smooth.
6. Add the blueberry puree to the lemonade mixture and stir well.
7. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
8. Serve over ice and garnish with additional blueberries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a refreshing drink!
Honey Ginger Lemonade
Brighten up your day with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade! This honey ginger lemonade combines the sweetness of honey, the warmth of ginger, and the tanginess of lemon for a delightful drink that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup honey syrup (equal parts honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4 cups lemonade mix or homemade lemonade
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey syrup and sliced ginger. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the honey dissolves and the mixture is warm.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice and cooled honey-ginger mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the lemonade mix or homemade lemonade and stir until dissolved.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cucumber Mint Lemonade
Beat the heat with this revitalizing drink that combines the cooling flavors of cucumber, mint, and lemonade. Perfect for a summer evening or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup sugar
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and sugar. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add sliced cucumber to the pitcher and let it infuse for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Just before serving, add fresh mint leaves to the pitcher and muddle them gently with a spoon to release their oils and flavor.
4. Fill glasses with ice and pour the lemonade mixture over the ice.
5. Stir well and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready in no time.
Raspberry Basil Lemonade
A refreshing twist on classic lemonade, this recipe combines the sweetness of raspberries with the brightness of basil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the raspberries and sugar until smooth.
2. Add the basil leaves to the blender and blend until well combined.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher.
4. Add the lemon juice and water to the pitcher. Stir to combine.
5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve the lemonade over ice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (not including chilling time)
Peach Lemonade
This refreshing drink combines the sweetness of peaches with the tanginess of lemonade, making it a perfect treat for hot summer days. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this delicious peach lemonade in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh or frozen peaches, diced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the diced peaches and lemon juice.
2. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the water and stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the peach lemonade over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold drink.
Watermelon Lemonade
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy twist on classic lemonade! This recipe combines the juicy flavor of watermelon with a hint of citrus, perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups cubed seedless watermelon
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cups sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, puree the watermelon until smooth.
2. In a large pitcher, mix together the watermelon puree and lemon juice.
3. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Add the water and stir well to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with additional watermelon cubes or a sprig of fresh mint, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This refreshing drink is ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Coconut Lemonade
Beat the heat with this creamy and tangy coconut lemonade recipe. With a hint of tropical flavor, it’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up on a hot day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Ice cubes
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.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together shredded coconut and salt.
4. Add the coconut mixture to the pitcher and stir until combined.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Matcha Lemonade
Perfect for warm weather or as a pick-me-up any time of the year, this matcha lemonade recipe combines the bright, citrusy flavor of lemons with the subtle grassy notes of matcha green tea. The result is a unique and refreshing beverage that’s sure to quench your thirst.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon matcha powder
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine the water and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the matcha powder and a splash of the lemonade mixture (about 2 tablespoons) until smooth and free of lumps.
4. Add the matcha mixture back into the pitcher and stir well to combine.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving over ice if desired.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cold drink.
Turmeric Lemonade
Turmeric lemonade is a unique twist on the classic summer drink, infused with the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric and the brightness of citrus. This refreshing beverage is perfect for hot days or as a soothing pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and water.
2. Add honey and whisk until dissolved.
3. Stir in turmeric until well combined.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve over ice if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Pineapple Lemonade
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy pineapple lemonade, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up on a hot day. This recipe combines the juicy flavor of pineapples with the brightness of lemons to create a refreshing drink that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Pineapple wedges and lemon slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together the lemon juice, pineapple juice, and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with pineapple wedges and lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 hours
Grapefruit Lemonade
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your summer with this refreshing grapefruit lemonade recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
– Sliced grapefruits and lemons for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together grapefruit and lemon juices 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. Serve cold, with ice cubes if desired. Garnish with sliced grapefruits and lemons for a pop of color.
Cooking Time: None! This is a refreshing drink recipe that’s ready in no time.
Lemonade Iced Tea (Arnold Palmer)
Combine the best of both worlds with this simple recipe for Lemonade Iced Tea, also known as Arnold Palmer.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strong brewed tea (black or green)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Brew the tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large pitcher, mix together the brewed tea and lemon juice until well combined.
3. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved.
4. Add the water and stir gently.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
6. Serve over ice cubes and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (preparation only)
Cherry Lemonade
Refreshing and tangy, this Cherry Lemonade recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup cherry juice (such as grenadine or tart cherry)
– 4 cups water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved.
2. Add cherry juice and stir well to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, add water and stir to combine.
5. Serve over ice cubes and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or lemon slice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply mix and chill.
Lavender Honey Lemonade
This refreshing drink combines the sweetness of honey, the tartness of lemon, and the subtle floral flavor of lavender to create a unique and delightful beverage perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup honey
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and honey until the honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add the water to the pitcher and stir well.
3. Add the dried lavender buds to the mixture and let it steep for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into another pitcher, discarding the lavender buds.
5. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: None
Spicy Jalapeño Lemonade
Add a kick to your summer with this refreshing twist on classic lemonade! This Spicy Jalapeño Lemonade recipe combines the tanginess of lemons with the spicy heat of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.
2. Add the chopped jalapeños to the mixture and stir well.
3. Add the water to the pitcher and stir to combine.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve the Spicy Jalapeño Lemonade over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this recipe is a refreshing drink and not a cooked dish.
Kiwi Lime Lemonade
Beat the heat with this unique and delicious twist on traditional lemonade! This sweet and tangy drink combines the flavors of kiwi, lime, and lemon for a refreshing summer treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup kiwi puree
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– Ice cubes
– Sliced kiwis and lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, mix together lemon juice and simple syrup until well combined.
2. Add kiwi puree and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Stir in lime juice.
4. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve the lemonade over ice and garnish with sliced kiwis and lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve as soon as it’s chilled.
Summary
Beat the summer heat with these refreshing lemonade recipes! From classic homemade to unique flavor combinations like strawberry, mint, and cucumber mint, there’s something for everyone. Add a twist with sparkling rosemary or lavender honey, or try something new like blueberry lavender or spicy jalapeño. With over 20 recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored of this timeless summer drink. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a refreshing pick-me-up, these lemonades are sure to hit the spot.