Nothing refreshes the spirit on a warm summer day quite like a tall glass of lemonade. But what if we add a delightful twist with a blend of fresh herbs? This Herbed Lemonade Recipe with Mint, Basil, and Dill takes the classic drink to a whole new level, offering a unique flavor profile that is both refreshing and sophisticated. Perfect for entertaining guests or simply enjoying a relaxing day at home, this herb-infused lemonade is sure to become a favorite in your beverage collection.
**Herbed Lemonade Recipe with Mint, Basil, and Dill**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 large lemons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 cups cold water
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh dill fronds
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slices and herb sprigs for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Herbed Simple Syrup:** In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 1 cup of water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has completely dissolved, creating a simple syrup base.
2. **Infuse with Herbs:** Add the mint leaves, basil leaves, and dill fronds to the simple syrup mixture. Allow the herbs to steep for about 10-15 minutes, infusing their flavors into the syrup. Remove from heat and let it cool.
3. **Mix Lemonade Base:** In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with the remaining 5 cups of cold water. Stir well to mix.
4. **Strain and Combine:** Once the herbed simple syrup has cooled, strain out the herbs, leaving a smooth, flavored syrup. Pour the herbed simple syrup into the pitcher with the lemon water mixture and stir until well combined.
5. **Chill and Serve:** Refrigerate the herbed lemonade for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the herbed lemonade over them. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and a sprig of herbs.
Enjoy sipping on this aromatic and tangy Herbed Lemonade with Mint, Basil, and Dill! It’s a perfect companion for picnics, brunches, or simply unwinding on a lazy afternoon. The combination of zesty lemon with the fragrant herbs creates a symphony of flavors that dances on your taste buds with every sip. Experiment with the herb ratios to suit your taste preferences, and feel free to tailor the sweetness level by adjusting the amount of sugar in the simple syrup. Cheers to the joys of summer and the simple pleasures found in a chilled glass of homemade herbed lemonade!