How to Make the Perfect Rosemary Infused Lemonade
Mediterranean · Easy · 20 min · 4 servings
This sophisticated rosemary infused lemonade pairs the woody, piney aroma of fresh rosemary with bright citrus lemon juice for an herbaceous and refreshing summer beverage. This homemade herbal lemonade is perfect for backyard barbecues and adult gatherings looking for a unique non-alcoholic drink.
Why this recipe works
This Rosemary Infused Lemonade recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 20 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 90 calories with 0g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 5 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 3 cups cold water
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Prepare Rosemary Syrup
Combine sugar, 1 cup water, and fresh rosemary sprigs in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves, bring to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let rosemary steep for another 10 minutes, then strain and cool.
Step 2: Juice the Lemons
Squeeze fresh lemons to yield 1 cup of lemon juice. Roll the lemons on the counter before cutting to maximize juice yield.
Step 3: Mix the Lemonade
Combine the cooled rosemary syrup, fresh lemon juice, and 3 cups of cold water in a large pitcher. Stir well and taste, adjusting sugar or lemon juice to your preference.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Pour over ice and garnish each glass with a fresh rosemary sprig and lemon slice. The rosemary sprig doubles as a stirring stick and releases more aroma as you drink.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- fresh rosemary → dried rosemary using half the amount since it is more concentrated
- granulated sugar → raw honey for earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with rosemary
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Simmering the rosemary too long which makes the syrup bitter and medicinal tasting
- Not letting the syrup cool before mixing which can make the lemonade taste flat and hot
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 90 calories, 0g protein, 24g carbs, 0g fat, 0g fiber.
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