Are you looking for a simple yet incredibly refreshing homemade drink to beat the heat? Look no further! This easy lemon squash recipe is perfect for a hot summer's day, a casual get-together, or simply as a healthy and delicious alternative to sugary sodas. It's incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust sweetness and tartness to your liking, making it a perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. This recipe is a great example of delicious dishes you can create with simple homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup white sugar (or to taste, you can use less or substitute with honey or agave nectar for a healthier option)
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup lemon juice (about 6-8 large lemons)
- 4 cups cold water (for diluting)
- Lemon slices and mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Lemon Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1 cup of water.
- Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until the syrup becomes slightly thicker and clear. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Combining the Syrup and Lemon Juice
- Remove the syrup from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
- Once cooled, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the syrup. Stir well to combine. Ensure you strain your lemon juice to remove any seeds or pulp for a smoother squash.
Step 3: Diluting and Serving
- To make a serving, mix 1/4 cup of the lemon syrup mixture with 1 cup of cold water. Adjust the amount of syrup to your preference for a sweeter or tarter drink.
- Pour into glasses filled with ice.
- Garnish with fresh lemon slices and mint sprigs for an extra touch of elegance and flavour.
Tips for the Best Lemon Squash:
- Use fresh lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference in the flavour and aroma of your squash.
- Adjust sweetness: The amount of sugar is adjustable to your preference. Start with less and add more if needed. Experiment with different sweeteners!
- Store properly: Store the lemon syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to a week.
Variations:
- Ginger Lemon Squash: Add a few slices of fresh ginger to the syrup while simmering for a spicy twist.
- Strawberry Lemon Squash: Blend some fresh strawberries into the syrup for a fruity variation.
- Mint Lemon Squash: Add a handful of fresh mint leaves to the syrup while simmering.
Nutritional Information (per serving, using 1/4 cup syrup and 1 cup water, with white sugar):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Sugar: Approximately 25-30g
This recipe is a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and best recipes for a refreshing and healthy beverage. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the bright flavors of summer, and it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade lemon squash!