Fresh Cucumber Lemonade
This Fresh Cucumber Lemonade is a cool and refreshing twist on the classic lemonade. The crisp taste of cucumber combined with the tartness of lemons makes for an incredibly hydrating and rejuvenating beverage. A perfect drink for summer, this lemonade is not only refreshing but also packed with vitamins and antioxidants.
Time & Yield:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 1-2 hours (optional but recommended)
Total Time: 10 minutes + chilling
Ingredients:
1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced
3-4 large lemons (about 1 cup of lemon juice)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
4 cups cold water
Ice cubes (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumber and Lemon:
Peel and slice the cucumber into rounds.
Juice the lemons to get about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
2. Blend the Cucumber:
In a blender, combine the cucumber slices and 2 cups of cold water. Blend until smooth.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the pulp (optional, depending on your texture preference).
3. Make the Lemonade:
In a large pitcher, combine the cucumber juice, lemon juice, honey (or maple syrup), and the remaining 2 cups of cold water. Stir well to dissolve the sweetener.
4. Chill:
For the best flavor, refrigerate the lemonade for at least 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve:
Pour the lemonade into glasses over ice cubes, and garnish with fresh mint leaves or cucumber slices for an extra touch.
Notes & Tips:
Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your sweetness preference. You can also substitute with stevia or another sweetener.
Flavor Boost: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil to the blender for a fragrant twist.
Storage: This cucumber lemonade can be stored in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
Carbonated Version: For a fizzy version, use sparkling water instead of still water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I make this lemonade without a blender?
A: Yes! You can mash the cucumber slices with a muddler or fork and then strain the juice. This will work as an alternative to using a blender.
Q2: How do I make this lemonade less tart?
A: If the lemonade is too tart for your taste, add a little more sweetener or reduce the amount of lemon juice.
Q3: Can I make this in advance for a party?
A: Yes! You can make this lemonade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to add ice or chill it with cold water.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 45 kcal
Protein: 1g
Carbs: 11g
Fat: 0g
Fiber: 1g
Enjoy this cool, hydrating Fresh Cucumber Lemonade on a warm day—it’s light, refreshing, and packed with flavors!