Recipe for Simple Perfection
Before we talk about anything else, let’s start with the basics: what’s the recipe for lemonade? Start with one part lemon juice, one part sugar, and three parts water, then tweak based on how strong or sweet you like it! Remember to dissolve the sugar into hot water before adding it to the lemon juice.
The Main Squeeze
You need to squeeze 3-4 lemons for a cup of lemon juice, so here are some hacks! Zap the whole lemons in a microwave for 15-20 seconds to loosen up the flesh and get the juices flowing. After cutting them, fit a lemon half between the two arms of some tongs, then grasp the splayed ends and squeeze! Using this simple tool instead of raw hand power is surprisingly effective.
Add Some Spice
Add some heat to your lemonade for an unexpected twist! The Black Cat in Fairhaven served a Cat Scratch Lemonade at one point, which featured the fresh green spice of jalapeno peppers. Alternatively, mix in or dip the glass in tajin for a hit of lime, chili, and salt!
Fresh and Leafy
Combine your favorite herbs with lemonade for an extra dimension of flavor. Mint is a classic when refreshment is the main goal (you can muddle in fresh leaves or use herbal mint tea bags!)
Pink is the New Pink
Pink lemonade is nostalgic, but we don’t need to use mystery powder mixes to achieve that iconic hue anymore! Muddle in raspberries or strawberries (or even your favorite red jam) for a bright pink beverage with a berry tint.