We got a Costco order delivered and it included a full bag of lemons that we didn’t order and weren’t charged for, but got to keep. So you know what they say: “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! So we did. We made this delicious homemade lemonade with agave syrup and lime juice.
This recipe would also make a great homemade margarita mix as well. Super simple and delicious. For the very best flavor, use fresh squeezed lemons and limes. But, in a pinch or for an even quicker treat, you could use bottled lemon and/or lime juice.
Fresh herbs are easy to grow, especially mint and lemon balm. We’re growing lemon balm so that’s the herb we used for garnish, however, there are other delicious options as well.
Lemonade Garnish Ideas
Garnishing not only adds visual appeal but can also enhance the flavor of your homemade lemonade. Here are some garnish ideas for lemonade:
- Lemon Slices or Wedges: A classic choice that reinforces the lemon flavor.
- Lemon Balm or other Mint Leaves: They add a refreshing touch and pair wonderfully with lemon.
- Basil Leaves: For a unique twist, basil can add an aromatic and slightly sweet flavor.
- Berries: Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries can add a pop of color and a hint of fruity sweetness. Consider a skewer of berries as a stir stick.
- Cucumber Slices: They provide a cool, refreshing taste and a crisp texture. (Slice in rounds and cut a slit on one half to perch on glass rim).
- Edible Flowers: Such as pansies, violets, or marigolds, they can make your lemonade look elegant and beautiful.
See also Wild Violets Benefits - Rosemary Sprigs: This herb can add a piney aroma and a Mediterranean touch. See Rosemary Health Benefits.
- Lavender: A few sprigs or dried buds can give your lemonade a floral aroma and a hint of purple color.
If you love plants, see Growing Lavender - Ginger Slices: For a spicy kick and added depth of flavor.
- Star Anise or Cinnamon Sticks: These can add a warm, spicy note to your lemonade.
- Lime Slices or Zest: For a tangy twist and a slightly different citrus note.
- Pomegranate Seeds: They add a burst of color and a sweet-tart flavor.
- Chia Seeds: For a fun texture and a health boost.
- Crushed Ice or Ice Cubes: Sometimes the type of ice can also act as a garnish, especially if you use shaped ice molds.
- Rim the Glass: You can dip the rim of the glass in sugar, salt, or a mix of spices to add an extra touch of flavor with each sip.
Remember, the key is to choose garnishes that complement the flavor of your lemonade and enhance its visual appeal. You can also mix and match different garnishes to create your own signature lemonade!
Lemonade With Agave Syrup and Lime Juice
Ingredients
- 2 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh lime juice
- 2/3 cup agave nectar
- 6 cups water
- 4 wheels fresh lemon slices Optional (or lime and can be circle or half circle slice)
- 1/2 tbsp Pink Himalayan Salt Optional (and can be any salt of your choice)
- 4 springs Lemon balm Optional garnish placed against rim (or other minty herb)
Instructions
- Briskly stir or whisk ingredients together and serve over crushed ice. OR…
- If using lemon or lime garnish, slice these now into thin circles or halves. Slice a slit along one of the sections fro outer rim to inner circle (not all the way across).
- If salting the rims, do this now by taking a wedge or one of the slices of citrus garnish and rub lightly around the rim.
- Place a thin layer of salt in a shallow bowl or saucer wide enough to accommodate the diameter of the glass. Lightly "stamp" glass upside down in the salt bowl, shaking gently to knock off the loose excess salt. It's fun to use some kind of festive glass for this.
- Serve over crushed ice. For festive flair, add a lemon or lime garnish and optionally, lightly salt the rim using pink Himalayan salt (or whatever kind you have on hand).