How to Make Homemade Lemonade
by Woman's Day Staff
When Life Hands You Lemons...
There's nothing like an ice-cold glass of lemonade to help you cool off on a hot summer day. Fortunately, it couldn't be simpler to make it yourself-all you need are a few tools and three ingredients. So forgo the powdered stuff and blend a tasty batch of your own with this easy step-by-step guide.
Photo: © Con Poulos/Woman's Day
Step 1
To make 8 servings, in a small saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer (do not stir) until the sugar dissolves, 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Photo: © Philip Ficks/Woman's Day
Step 2
Meanwhile, place a small strainer over a measuring cup. Cut about 10 lemons in half crosswise and, using a reamer, squeeze 1 1/2 cups juice into the measuring cup. (Tip: If your lemons are firm, roll them on a cutting board while gently pressing down to soften-this will make them easier to juice.)
Photo: © Philip Ficks/Woman's Day
Add a citrus twist to your dessert course with these luscious lemon recipes.
Step 3
In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, cooled sugar syrup and 4 cups cold water. Taste the lemonade for tartness: If it's too tart, add 1 to 2 cups more cold water (keep in mind that you'll want to add ice, which will dilute the lemonade). Refrigerate until chilled. Before serving, thinly slice 2 lemons or cut into wedges, stir them into the lemonade and add ice. (Tip: Freeze some lemonade in ice cube trays and add the cubes to your pitcher or glasses later. Unlike regular ice cubes, these won't dilute your lemonade.)
Photo: © Philip Ficks/Woman's Day
Variations
For a twist on classic lemonade, make 2 lemon-mint slushies by placing 1 1/2 cups lemonade, 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves and 2 cups ice in a blender. Blend until the ice is crushed and the mixture is combined. Or, try these two flavorful variations: sparkling strawberry and ginger-cucumber.
Photo: © Philip Ficks/Woman's Day
Original article appeared on WomansDay.com.
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