Fresh Homemade Mint Lemonade
A quick and easy refreshing summer drink combining the tartness of fresh lemons with the cooling burst of mint. Perfect for hot days and gatherings, this lemonade is simple yet impressively flavorful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 medium fresh lemons (about 1 cup or 240 ml lemon juice)
- 20–25 fresh mint leaves
- 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
- 5 cups (1.2 liters) cold water
- Ice cubes
- Optional: lemon slices for garnish
- Optional: mint sprigs for garnish
- Optional: sparkling water (to replace part of the cold water)
Instructions
- Roll each lemon firmly on the counter to soften, then cut in half and juice until you have about 1 cup (240 ml) of fresh lemon juice. Remove any seeds.
- Place the fresh mint leaves in the bottom of your pitcher. Using a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon, gently press and twist the leaves 10-15 times to release oils without shredding.
- Pour the sugar over the muddled mint, then add the fresh lemon juice. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Pour in 5 cups (1.2 liters) of cold water and stir to combine evenly.
- Add plenty of ice to the pitcher or glasses. Garnish with lemon slices and mint sprigs if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 24 hours, stirring before serving.
Notes
Do not over-muddle the mint to avoid bitterness. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for best flavor. For a smoother lemonade, strain before chilling. Adjust sugar to taste. Refrigerate up to 24 hours and stir before serving. Sparkling water can replace cold water for a fizzy version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 ounces (240 ml)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 24
- Carbohydrates: 24
Keywords: mint lemonade, homemade lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, easy lemonade recipe, fresh mint drink