Dive into the refreshing world of Lebanese Mint Lemonade, or Limonana, a drink that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the sun-soaked shores of the Mediterranean! This delightful concoction combines the zesty brightness of fresh lemons with the invigorating aroma of mint, creating a thirst-quenching beverage perfect for any occasion. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a summer gathering, this easy-to-make recipe will have your guests begging for more. Ready to impress? Let’s get started on crafting your own homemade Limonana that will leave everyone craving a second glass!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: Lebanese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 4 cups water
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Wash the fresh mint leaves thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Squeeze fresh lemons to extract 1 cup of pure lemon juice, ensuring no seeds remain in the juice.
- In a blender, combine the fresh mint leaves, lemon juice, sugar, and 2 cups of water.
- Blend the mixture on high speed for 1-2 minutes until the mint leaves are completely broken down and the ingredients are well combined.
- Place a fine mesh strainer over a large pitcher to remove mint leaf pulp, carefully pouring the blended mixture through the strainer.
- Add the remaining 2 cups of cold water to the strained mixture and stir well to combine.
- Taste the lemonade and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if needed, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Fill serving glasses with ice cubes to the top.
- Pour the mint lemonade over the ice, leaving a small space at the top of each glass.
- Garnish with a few fresh mint leaves and a lemon slice for additional visual appeal.
- Serve immediately while cold and enjoy the refreshing Lebanese Limonana.
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for fresh mint leaves and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Avoid bottled lemon juice, as it lacks the vibrant taste of fresh lemons.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Taste your Limonana after blending and feel free to adjust the sugar to your liking. If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with less sugar and add more as needed.
- Chill the Water: Using cold water will help keep your Limonana refreshing and cool, especially if you’re serving it on a hot day.
- Strain Well: To achieve a smooth texture, make sure to strain the mint pulp thoroughly. This will give your lemonade a clean finish, allowing the flavors to shine.
- Garnish Creatively: Enhance the presentation by garnishing each glass with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon. This not only looks appealing but also adds an extra burst of flavor.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the mint lemonade in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving, and add ice to keep it chilled.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist or infuse other fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a unique variation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
