Italian Sparkling Lemonade with Basil & Mint
This Italian lemonade is a refreshing twist on the usual lemonade, with fresh lemon juice and a hint of either basil or mint, depending on what you have or prefer. It can be made with sparkling water for some fizz or still water if you want something calmer. It’s perfect for a hot day or whenever you want something a bit different from plain lemonade.
Equipment
- Pitcher
- Measuring Cup
- Spoon
- Juicer
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice about 4-6 lemons
- 3/4 cup sugar adjust to taste
- 4 cups cold water can be sparkling or still
- 1/4 cup fresh basil or mint leaves use basil for a more herbal flavor or mint for something fresher
- ice ice cubes for serving
Instructions
- Start by juicing the lemons until you get about 1 cup of juice. It’s easier if you roll them on the counter first, that little trick helps get more juice out.
- In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice and sugar. Stir well until most of the sugar dissolves. It might take a minute because it’s cold, but keep at it.
- Add the water to the lemon and sugar mixture. If you want fizz, use sparkling water here. For a calmer drink, use still water. Both work fine, just depends on your mood.
- Tear up the basil or mint leaves a bit and toss them in. Basil gives a slightly sweet herbal note, mint is more bright and cooling. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes so the flavors mingle.
- Serve over ice cubes. You can add a lemon slice or a sprig of the herb on top if you want to look fancy, but it’s not needed.
Notes
Italian lemonade differs from traditional lemonade mainly because of the herb addition and the option for sparkling water. Traditional lemonade is usually just lemon juice, sugar, and still water. The herbs add a subtle complexity that’s nice if you want something a bit different. You can swap basil for mint depending on what you have or what you prefer. Also, sparkling water gives it a soda-like feel, but still water keeps it mellow.