Lemonade with mint

Mint lemonade: Refreshing and revitalizing

Mint lemonade is one of those drinks that reminds us of hot summer days, gatherings with friends, and moments of relaxation in the backyard. This simple and quick recipe will delight your senses and be a true pleasure throughout the warm season. Whether you want to cool down after a scorching day or enjoy a drink full of freshness, mint lemonade is the perfect choice.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g lemons (approximately 6-8 medium lemons)
- 1 liter water
- Sugar, honey, or sweetener (to taste)
- Fresh mint leaves (approximately 20-30 leaves)
- Ice (optional)

Brief history:
Lemonade is an ancient drink, appreciated for centuries for its refreshing taste and hydrating properties. It is believed to have been first made in ancient Egypt, where lemons were used not only to cool down but also to prevent dehydration. Over time, lemonade gained popularity worldwide, becoming a symbol of summer and cheerfulness.

Step by step, we learn to prepare mint lemonade

Step 1: Preparing the lemons
Start by washing the lemons well under cold running water. This will remove impurities from the skin. After cleaning them, squeeze the juice from the lemons and set it aside. Keep one whole lemon for decoration later.

Step 2: Sweetening
Now comes the creative part! Choose how you want to sweeten the lemonade. If you prefer honey, dissolve it in warm water (about 100 ml) for even distribution. If you opt for sugar, you have two options: either dissolve the sugar directly in cold water, or prepare a simple syrup by boiling 200 g of sugar with 200 ml of water until the sugar completely dissolves. The syrup should cool before adding it to the lemonade.

Step 3: Preparing the lemonade
In a large container, add the lemon juice and your chosen sweetener. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Then, gradually pour in one liter of cold water, stirring constantly to achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is important to taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness level to your preferences.

Step 4: Adding mint
Wash the mint leaves and, using a mortar or fork, gently crush the leaves to release the essential oils and aroma. Add the mint leaves to the lemonade and let the drink infuse for 5-10 minutes to intensify the flavor.

Step 5: Serving
Place some ice cubes in glasses, pour the lemonade over the ice, and garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves for an attractive look. Enjoy throughout the day!

Practical tips:
- You can replace lemons with limes for a different and interesting flavor.
- Add a few slices of cucumber for an extra refreshing note.
- If you want sparkling lemonade, add sparkling water instead of still water.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pre-squeezed lemons?
We recommend using fresh lemons for a more intense and vibrant taste. Store-bought squeezed lemons may contain preservatives and won't provide the same freshness.

2. How can I make the lemonade less acidic?
If you want to reduce the acidity, add more sweetener or even a splash of sparkling water to balance the taste.

3. Can I prepare lemonade in advance?
Yes, lemonade can be made a few hours ahead, but it is recommended to consume it fresh. Keep it in the refrigerator and add ice only when serving to avoid diluting the taste.

Delicious combinations:
Mint lemonade is perfect alongside a fresh fruit salad, a cheese platter, or even grilled dishes. You can also pair it with an alcoholic drink, such as gin or vodka, to create a refreshing cocktail.

Nutritional benefits:
Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system, and have antioxidant properties. Mint, on the other hand, is known for its digestive effects and its ability to provide a calming effect.

Calories:
A serving of mint lemonade (approximately 250 ml) made with sugar contains about 100-120 calories, depending on the amount of sweetener used. Lemonade made with honey or sweetener has a lower calorie content.

Whether you want to cool off in the summer or impress guests with a special drink, mint lemonade is the perfect choice. With every sip, you'll feel how the freshness and aroma of this drink energize you and bring smiles. So, don’t hesitate! Prepare your ingredients and enjoy a delicious lemonade! Enjoy!