Nothing compares to a crisp, refreshing glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade on ice. This recipe has two twists for an elevated take on classic lemonade – using Meyer lemons with their sweet, floral qualities, and garnishing with rosemary sprigs for a peppery note. Easy and elegant!
You can use storebought simple syrup for an even quicker prep time, but if you don’t have it on hand, we’ve included an easy homemade simple syrup recipe you can make in bulk and store.
After you squeeze the lemons, save the rinds. Citrus fruits contain oil in their rinds that have an incredible flavor. Squeezing the lemons brings the oil to the surface of the rind, so tossing them into the mixture will add an extra bright flavor to the lemonade.
Keep in mind that rosemary has a very strong flavor and can quickly overpower a recipe. Less is more with this recipe, as you want to complement the flavor of the Meyer lemons, not smother it.
Ingredients:
- ½ c. fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
- 1 c. simple syrup (see recipe below)
- 4 c. water
- Rosemary sprigs, for garnish
Instructions:
- Add lemon juice, simple syrup, and water to a large pitcher. Stir to combine.
- Add squeezed lemon rinds and give a final stir.
- Chill until ready to serve or serve immediately by pouring over ice. Garnish each glass with a sprig of rosemary.
Simple Syrup Recipe
This recipe yields about 3 cups of simple syrup and will keep for months if a sterile jar is used for storing. Try adding different flavors like lavender or mint during the simmering process to make your own flavor-infused syrups!
Ingredients:
- 2 c. water
- 2 c. sugar
Instructions:
- Add water and sugar to a medium saucepan. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over low heat.
- Simmer for 15-20 seconds, then remove from heat.
- Allow to cool, then transfer to a sterile glass jar. Store in refrigerator.