Old Fashioned Southern Lemonade
A refreshing and tangy Southern lemonade with fresh lemon slices, perfect for hot days and gatherings, offering a sweet and citrusy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice 4 lemons thinly and set aside.
- Roll each of the remaining lemons, unpeeled, against the countertop with the palm of your hand to release their juices.
- Slice each of the remaining lemons in half and squeeze juice into a large pitcher.
- Add water and SUGAH to the pitcher.
- Stir until the SUGAH is dissolved.
- Add the sliced lemons to the pitcher.
- Pour lemonade into tall glasses full of ice and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of bottled. If SUGAH isn't available, you can substitute with agave syrup or honey, adjusting to taste. To enhance the lemonade, add a few sprigs of fresh mint or a splash of sparkling water before serving for a refreshing twist. This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings or barbecues.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Old Fashioned Southern Lemonade in tall glasses filled with ice, garnished with a lemon slice or a sprig of mint for a beautiful presentation. It pairs wonderfully with Southern Living'S Fresh Apple Salad or is the perfect accompaniment to any summer barbecue, making it a refreshing choice for warm weather gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the ingredients may settle. If you want to enjoy it chilled, consider freezing some portions in ice cube trays and adding them to your glass for a refreshing drink that won't get watered down.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Southern Lemonade contains roughly 178 calories, with 3g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (82% of the Daily Value) and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the lemonade a day in advance. Just mix the lemon juice, SUGAH, and water, then refrigerate. Add the sliced lemons just before serving to keep them fresh. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the lemonade even more refreshing when served cold.
How can I reduce the sweetness of the lemonade?
If you find the lemonade too sweet, simply add more water or additional lemon juice to balance the flavors. Tasting as you go will help you achieve the perfect level of sweetness. You can also try using less SUGAH from the start and adjusting according to your preference.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Old Fashioned Southern Lemonade is entirely plant-based and suitable for vegan diets. The ingredients—lemons, SUGAH, and water—are all vegan-friendly. It's a refreshing drink that everyone can enjoy, making it an excellent choice for gatherings with friends or family.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).