Summer's here, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing Pimm's and Lemonade? This classic British summer drink is incredibly easy to make, delightfully fruity, and perfect for any occasion – from garden parties to relaxing evenings at home. It's the ultimate in easy recipes and healthy-ish drinks (depending on how generous you are with the Pimm's!). This recipe is your guide to crafting the perfect batch, whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a complete beginner in homemade cooking. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle (70cl) of Pimm's No. 1
- 1.5 liters of Lemonade (choose your favorite brand!)
- 500ml Sparkling Water or Club Soda
- 1 Cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 Orange, thinly sliced
- 1 Lemon, thinly sliced
- 10 Strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Fresh Mint Sprigs (about 10-12)
- Ice
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Start by preparing your fruit. Wash and slice the cucumber, orange, lemon, and strawberries. Set aside.
Mixing the Perfect Pitcher:
- In a large pitcher (ideally one with a capacity of at least 2.5 liters), combine the Pimm's No.1, lemonade, and sparkling water. Gently stir to combine.
Adding the Garnish:
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Add the sliced cucumber, orange, lemon, and strawberries to the pitcher. Give it another gentle stir.
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Tuck in the fresh mint sprigs.
Serving:
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Fill glasses with ice. Pour the Pimm's and Lemonade mixture over the ice, leaving some fruit in the pitcher for all the glasses.
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Garnish each glass with an extra strawberry or mint sprig, if desired.
Tips for the Best Pimm's and Lemonade:
- Fruit Matters: Don't skimp on the fruit! It's crucial for both the flavor and the visual appeal of your Pimm's. Feel free to add other fruits like raspberries or blackberries for an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Chill Out: For the ultimate refreshing experience, chill the lemonade and sparkling water beforehand. You can also chill the pitcher itself.
- Adjust to Taste: The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the proportions of Pimm's, lemonade, and sparkling water to suit your taste. If you prefer a stronger Pimm's kick, add a bit more Pimm's. For a lighter, sweeter drink, increase the lemonade.
- Make it a Meal: Pimm's and Lemonade pairs beautifully with light summer dishes like salads, sandwiches, or grilled seafood.
Variations:
- Elderflower Pimm's: Add a splash of elderflower cordial for a floral twist.
- Spicy Pimm's: Add a few slices of jalapeño for a surprising kick.
- Virgin Pimm's: Omit the Pimm's for a delicious non-alcoholic version. Simply replace it with extra lemonade or sparkling juice.
Nutritional Information (per serving - approximate, will vary depending on ingredient quantities):
- Calories: Varies significantly depending on the amount of Pimm's and the type of lemonade used.
- Carbohydrates: Primarily from the lemonade and fruit.
- Sugar: Naturally occurring sugars from the fruit and added sugars in the lemonade. Choose a lower-sugar lemonade for a healthier option.
This refreshing Pimm's and Lemonade recipe is perfect for any summer gathering. It's a delicious, easy-to-make, and adaptable drink that's sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy!