Lemonade with mint

Mint lemonade: a refreshing and delicious drink

Who doesn't love a cold lemonade, especially on a hot summer day? This mint lemonade recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, perfect for cooling down the whole family. The inspiration for this recipe comes from my son's desire to always enjoy a sweet and tangy drink, and today I am excited to share with you the secret of my recipe. You will discover step by step how to prepare this refreshing lemonade, along with a few tricks that will make this drink a true indulgence.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 4 large lemons (juice)
- 1 liter of water
- 6 tablespoons of sugar (or honey for a healthier option)
- 4-6 fresh mint leaves (or 1/2 bottle of mint essence)
- Lemon slices for decoration

Step 1: Squeezing the lemons
Start by washing the lemons well under cold running water. This will remove any impurities from the skin. Use a citrus juicer or simply press them with your palm on a hard surface to make them juicier. Cut the lemons in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl, being careful to avoid the seeds. You will need about 200-250 ml of fresh lemon juice.

Step 2: Preparing the lemon syrup
In a container, combine the lemon juice with water and sugar. Mix well until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is essential to ensure that the lemonade has a uniform taste, without sugar crystals.

Step 3: Adding the mint
If you choose to use fresh mint leaves, wash them well and gently crush them with the back of a spoon to release the essential oils. Add them to the lemon and water mixture. If you opt for mint essence, add it now. Mix again to distribute the flavor. Mint adds a fresh fragrance and a refreshing note to your lemonade.

Step 4: Chilling the lemonade
Transfer the mixture to a pitcher or glass container and let it chill in the refrigerator for an hour. This step will allow the flavors to blend and intensify, and the lemonade will be perfectly refreshing.

Step 5: Serving
It’s time to enjoy the lemonade! Fill the glasses with cold lemonade and decorate them with fresh lemon slices. A splendid idea is to slightly score the peel of the lemon slices so they sit perfectly on the rim of the glass.

If you have guests, you can add a touch of elegance by wetting the rim of the glass with water and then dipping it in granulated sugar. This detail not only looks good but also adds a sweet note to the first sip.

Interesting variations:
- For a truly healthy option, you can replace sugar with honey. This not only sweetens but also brings additional nutritional benefits.
- Add a few slices of cucumber for a fresh and unexpected flavor.
- Instead of water, you can use sparkling water to give a fizzy note to the lemonade.

Nutritional benefits:
Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C, contributing to strengthening the immune system and maintaining healthy skin. Additionally, mint is known for its digestive and refreshing properties.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned lemons?
- It is recommended to use fresh lemons to achieve a rich and natural flavor. Canned lemons may contain additives that alter the taste.

2. What else can I add to the lemonade?
- You can experiment with different herbs, such as basil or rosemary, to create a unique drink.

3. How long can the lemonade be stored?
- Lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is best consumed freshly made to preserve its flavors.

Serving suggestions:
This mint lemonade pairs perfectly with a fresh fruit salad or can be enjoyed alongside a fluffy blueberry muffin. You can also create a refreshing cocktail by adding a splash of gin or vodka for a fun summer evening.

Now that you have all this information, it’s time to grab the lemons and start your culinary adventure! Mint lemonade is more than just a drink; it’s an experience that brings joy and refreshment in every sip. Savor every moment and don’t forget to share the recipe with your loved ones!