Lemonade is a classic summer drink. It is sweet and refreshing. Unfortunately, it is also filled with added sugar. Did you know that one glass of lemonade has 28 grams of added sugar? That is the same as 7 tablespoons. That is double the amount of sugar found in a chocolate chip cookie.
(Image Source:
https://www.walmart.com/grocery/ip/Simply-Lemonade-All-Natural-Non-GMO-52-fl-oz/757977763)
In this post, we will explore a healthier alternative to store-bought lemonade: homemade lemonade. Below is a recipe for making your own version of lemonade that uses real fruit and honey, rather than granulated sugar. It is also customizable for you and your family. Try combining different fruits and herbs to create unique flavors.
Refreshing Lemonade Recipe
Ingredients:
- 6 cups water
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- Optional: Fruit mixture/puree- any type of fresh or frozen fruit of your choice*
- Optional: a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil
Instructions:
- Heat 1 cup of water in a saucepan or the microwave until very warm (not boiling).
- Add honey and stir until dissolved.
- Pour honey mixture into your pitcher.
- Add lemon juice and water.
- If adding fruit puree* or herbs, add along with the water (see notes for how to make fruit puree).
- Stir lemonade and add more fruit puree, fresh herbs, honey, as desired.
- Garnish with fresh fruit, if desired.
*To add fruit flavors: Puree 2-3 cups of fresh (or thawed, from frozen) fruit in a blender or by pressing the fruit in a bag until smooth. Add puree directly to the lemonade or strain the mixture before adding it to the lemonade for a smoother drink. Some possible additions include mango, peach, watermelon, strawberry, raspberry, blackberries & blueberries.
Adapted from: https://www.onelovelylife.com/8-flavors-of-healthy-homemade-lemonade/
What fruits do you plan on adding to your lemonade? Share with us in the comment section below.
