Refreshing Mint Lemonade (Limonata alla Menta)
A delightful, zesty beverage perfect for warm days, this Mint Lemonade offers a tangy twist of fresh lemon and a cooling hint of mint. With its refreshing taste and vibrant colors, it’s the ultimate drink for those seeking a natural, revitalizing refreshment. Easy to make, this lemonade is perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or simply enjoying at home.
Category: Beverages
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lemons | 1 kg |
| Water | 5 L |
| Sugar | 90 g |
| Fresh Mint | 15 g |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Sugars | 26 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Lemons:
Begin by inspecting the lemons and removing any leaves or stems. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water, then pat them dry. Slice the lemons in half, ready to extract the juice. -
Juicing the Lemons:
To get the most juice, use a citrus juicer or manual press to squeeze each lemon half until you’ve extracted all the juice. Aim for approximately 430 grams of fresh lemon juice. -
Straining the Juice:
Place a fine-mesh sieve or strainer over a large bowl or pitcher. Pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the strainer to filter out any pulp and seeds, ensuring a smooth, clear juice. -
Sweetening the Lemon Juice:
Add 90 grams of sugar to the lemon juice and stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved. This step is important to balance the tartness of the lemon with a touch of sweetness. -
Adding Water:
Pour in 5 liters of cold water into the bowl with the lemon and sugar mixture. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly. -
Infusing with Mint:
Add 15 grams of fresh mint to the pitcher, lightly bruising the leaves with your hands to release their oils and aroma. Stir the mixture gently and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to infuse the mint flavor into the lemonade. -
Serve:
Once the mint has infused and the lemonade is well-mixed, pour the refreshing beverage into glasses filled with ice. Garnish each glass with a sprig of mint for a final touch.
Tips for Serving:
- For extra flavor, you can add a few slices of lemon or a few extra mint leaves to the glasses.
- Serve this Mint Lemonade chilled for the best refreshing taste.
This Mint Lemonade is the perfect way to cool down during summer, offering a sweet and tangy sip that’s both hydrating and satisfying. With its natural ingredients, it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought drinks, and you can adjust the sweetness to your liking. Enjoy the burst of citrus and mint in every refreshing gulp!
