Description
Mediterranean-Style Mint Lemonade, also known as Limonana, is a refreshing and zesty beverage combining fresh lemons, mint leaves, and a hint of sweetness. This chilled lemonade is blended to a smooth consistency and strained for a clean, invigorating flavor perfect for hot days or anytime you crave a fresh, citrusy drink.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed ice
- 4 cups water
- 2 large lemons (or limes), washed, cut into small pieces, and seeds removed
- Juice of 1 large lemon
- 1 bunch fresh mint leaves, stems removed (about 25–40 mint leaves), plus more for garnish
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup sugar (cane sugar or part honey can be used, adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Blend Ingredients: Add the crushed ice, water, cut lemons, lemon juice, fresh mint leaves, and sugar into the pitcher of a high-quality blender. Cover and blend on high speed until the mixture reaches a smooth, drinkable consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the lemonade and, if desired, add more sugar or additional mint leaves to enhance sweetness and flavor. Blend again briefly to incorporate.
- Strain the Lemonade: Pour the blended lemonade through a fine mesh strainer into a serving pitcher to remove pulp and mint pieces, ensuring a smooth beverage. Add some fresh mint leaves to the pitcher for garnish. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.
- Serve: Before serving, optionally strain the lemonade once more into glasses to ensure extra smoothness. Serve cold and enjoy the refreshing Mediterranean-style mint lemonade.
Notes
- Adjust the sugar amount according to your preferred sweetness level or substitute with honey for a natural sweetener.
- Using fresh mint leaves provides the best vibrant flavor; gently bruise the leaves before blending to release their oils.
- Straining the lemonade twice can improve texture by removing pulp and mint pieces.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days but shake or stir before serving as separation may occur.
- Can also be made with limes instead of lemons for a tangier taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Mediterranean mint lemonade, limonana, refreshing summer drink, homemade lemonade, mint citrus beverage, healthy lemonade recipe
