Real Lemonade
Refreshing and tangy, this homemade lemonade combines bright lemon flavor with sweet and crisp notes, perfect for hot days or gatherings with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine bottled water, lemon juice from concentrate, and sugar in a large pitcher.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Chill in the refrigerator if desired.
- Serve over ice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice instead of concentrate, though this may alter the sweetness slightly. If you find the lemonade too tart, add more sugar or a splash of honey for natural sweetness. To make it fizzy, substitute some of the water with club soda. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this refreshing lemonade over ice for a cool treat on warm days. Garnish with lemon slices or fresh mint for added flair. It pairs beautifully with dishes like BBQ ribs or a salad like Cherry Jell Salad. For a fun twist, mix in some fruit purees for a fruity lemonade variation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If the lemonade begins to lose its brightness, consider adding a bit more lemon juice or sugar to refresh the flavor. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture once thawed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Real Lemonade contains roughly 75 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value).
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 use fresh lemons instead of lemon juice from concentrate?
Absolutely! Freshly squeezed lemon juice will give your lemonade a brighter, more natural flavor. You'll need about 6-8 lemons to yield 1 cup of juice. Just remember to adjust the sugar to suit your taste, as fresh lemons can be more tart.
How can I make this lemonade less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, simply cut back on the sugar by half or more, and add more lemon juice to maintain a balanced flavor. Alternatively, you can use a sugar substitute or try adding a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing twist without the extra sweetness.
Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?
Yes, this lemonade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It tastes best when chilled for a few hours before serving. Just be sure to give it a good stir before pouring, as the sugar may settle at the bottom over time.
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).