Lemonade with mint

Mint Lemonade - Refreshing and Invigorating on Hot Days

When the sun shines and temperatures rise, there's nothing more refreshing than a glass of mint lemonade! This simple and quick mint lemonade recipe is not only a delicious way to stay hydrated but also an opportunity to enjoy the fresh flavors of summer. Get ready for a drink that will delight your taste buds and cool you down on those hot days!

Preparation Time
- Active time: 10 minutes
- Chilling time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6

The Magic Ingredients
To make the perfect mint lemonade, you will need:
- 1.5 liters of still water
- 1.5 lemons (one whole and half)
- 1 lime (half for juicing, half for slicing)
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
- Green Sugar cubes (or sweetener of your choice, to taste)

Steps to Refreshment
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by thoroughly washing the lemons and lime under cold running water. This step is essential to ensure you remove any impurities from the citrus peels.

2. Juicing the citrus: In a bowl, squeeze the whole lemon and half of the lime. Use a citrus juicer to ensure you extract all the juice. Reserve the other half of the lime and lemon.

3. Slicing the citrus: Cut the remaining half of the lime and lemon into thin slices. These will not only add a pleasing appearance to your lemonade but also provide extra flavor.

4. Mixing the lemonade: In the bowl with the freshly squeezed juice, add the lemon and lime slices along with the still water. Next, add the Green Sugar cubes. Stir well until the sweetener is completely dissolved. You can adjust the amount of sweetener according to your preferences: if you like it sweeter, add more.

5. Adding the mint: Wash the mint leaves and add them to the lemonade. The mint will provide a fresh and invigorating taste, perfect for warm days.

6. Chilling the lemonade: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend and intensify.

7. Serving: After the lemonade has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator and pour it into glasses. You can add a few ice cubes for extra coolness and garnish with a slice of lemon or lime on the rim of the glass, along with a few mint leaves.

The Story Behind the Lemonade
Lemonade is a drink that has transcended generations, cherished for its refreshing taste and hydrating properties. Its origins are often associated with summer traditions when citrus fruits are at their peak. Adding mint is a wonderful way to personalize this classic beverage, offering not only a unique flavor but also aromas that evoke moments of relaxation and joy.

Nutritional Benefits
Mint lemonade is not just refreshing; it's also good for your health:
- Hydrating: Water and lemon help maintain hydration, which is essential on hot days.
- Vitamin C: Lemon is an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system.
- Digestion: Mint is known for its digestive properties, helping to alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort.

Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Dandelion Syrup Lemonade: If you want to try something different, replace Green Sugar with dandelion syrup. The taste will be sweet and tangy with a lovely aroma.
- Adding fruits: You can add other fruits, such as strawberries or raspberries, for a colorful and delicious lemonade.
- Cocktails: This lemonade can be the perfect base for refreshing cocktails. Add a splash of gin or vodka for an alcoholic version.
- Serving with ice: Serve the lemonade with ice cubes or even crushed ice for a special effect.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another sweetener instead of Green Sugar?
Yes, you can use honey, sugar, or any other sweetener you prefer. Adjust the quantity to taste.

2. How long does lemonade last in the refrigerator?
Lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent oxidation.

3. Can I use sparkling water instead of still water?
Absolutely! Sparkling water will add a fizzy note to your lemonade, making it even more interesting.

So, don’t hesitate any longer! Make your mint lemonade today and enjoy a refreshing drink that will turn your hot days into moments of relaxation and pleasure. You might even discover your new favorite summer recipe!