When life gives you lemons, make Classic Lemonade! There’s nothing more refreshing than a cold glass of freshly squeezed lemonade, especially on a hot summer day. This Classic Lemonade recipe is incredibly simple to make with just three ingredients—freshly squeezed lemon juice, water, and your choice of sweetener (sugar or honey). It’s a naturally gluten-free drink that’s both delicious and hydrating!
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, enjoying a relaxing afternoon on the porch, or just craving something cool and refreshing, this homemade lemonade is the perfect drink. Let’s dive into how you can make this classic, thirst-quenching beverage at home!
Why You’ll Love This Classic Lemonade
- Naturally Gluten-Free: This lemonade is made with gluten-free ingredients, making it a safe and refreshing option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Customizable Sweetness: You can adjust the sweetness of the lemonade with sugar, honey, or any sweetener of your choice.
- Quick and Easy: With only three ingredients and a few simple steps, this lemonade comes together in no time.
- Refreshing: The tartness of the lemon combined with the sweetness of the sugar or honey creates the perfect balance of flavor, making it incredibly refreshing and thirst-quenching.
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Freshly squeezed lemon juice | 1 cup (about 4-6 lemons) |
| Water | 5 cups |
| Sugar or honey (optional) | 1/2 to 3/4 cup, to taste |
Instructions:
1. Squeeze the Lemons:
- Start by rolling the lemons on the counter to release their juice. Cut each lemon in half and squeeze out the juice, making sure to remove any seeds. You should get about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, depending on the size of your lemons.
2. Prepare the Simple Syrup:
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water with sugar or honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar or honey has dissolved. If you prefer a less sweet lemonade, adjust the amount of sugar or honey to your taste.
3. Combine the Lemon Juice and Syrup:
- In a large pitcher, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the simple syrup (or just the sweetener if using honey). Stir well to combine. If you like your lemonade extra cold, you can chill the mixture in the fridge at this point.
4. Add Water:
- Add 4 cups of cold water to the pitcher, stirring to dilute the lemon juice and sweetener mixture. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed. If the lemonade is too strong, add more water to your liking.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the lemonade over ice for a refreshing drink. Garnish with lemon slices or mint leaves for extra flair. Enjoy the perfect glass of homemade lemonade!
Nutritional Facts (per 1 cup serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60-80 kcal |
| Protein | 0 grams |
| Total Fat | 0 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 0 grams |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 0-1 grams |
| Sugar | 15-20 grams |
| Vitamin A | 0% of the daily value |
| Vitamin C | 25% of the daily value |
| Calcium | 2% of the daily value |
| Iron | 0% of the daily value |
| Potassium | 100-150 mg |
This Classic Lemonade is the perfect refreshing drink for any occasion. Made with fresh, simple ingredients, it’s naturally gluten-free and easily customizable to suit your taste. Whether you’re sipping it poolside, serving it at a barbecue, or just enjoying a cool drink on a hot day, this homemade lemonade is sure to hit the spot.
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a deliciously tangy, sweet, and perfectly refreshing lemonade that everyone will love. So, grab your lemons, squeeze away, and enjoy a glass of homemade lemonade today!
