Summer is finally upon us, and with the mercury rising, the best way to keep from overheating is with a nice tall glass of lemonade. Despite what one giant corporation may want you to believe, lemonade does not come from a powder. In fact, the beverage is so simple, it is bewildering why millions of Americans get their summertime refreshment from a cardboard can. Perhaps people are plagued with sugar crystals pooled in the bottom of the pitcher, or a drink that is far too sour. But with a few simple guidelines, and a couple crazy ideas to jazz up the classic, the Quad is going to alter your perception of what a humble glass of lemonade can do, just like we did back in the winter with hot chocolate.
First, to avoid the problem of undissolved sugar, make simple syrup instead. Combine equal parts sugar and water in a small pot. Let sit over medium heat, stirring often, until all the sugar has dissolved. Problem solved!
Combine two cups of this syrup with one cup lemon juice and about 3 cups of ice (which will melt and dilute the lemonade). Wow, that was almost as easy as taking one of my finals.
Now for the fun part—additions. My favorite extra ingredient is fresh mint. Mash up a handful of mint leaves in the bottom of your pitcher just before adding all the other ingredients. This process is called “muddling,” and it is supposed to release the herb’s essential oils. Garnish each glass with a non-muddled sprig of mint. Or, if you’re really feeling ambitious, add some extra ice and put the entire drink mixture into a blender. You’ll get a lemon/mint/slushy called Limonana, a popular drink in Israel.
Strawberries are also welcome to the lemonade party. Thaw one cup frozen strawberries (fresh would be good, too, but frozen fruits have a more concentrated flavor). Place the fruit in a blender and puree until smooth. If you don’t want any seeds in your lemonade, pass the juice through a fine mesh strainer. Add the strawberry juice to the original lemonade recipe. You could also add a handful of fresh basil leaves (muddled just like the mint).
Ok, ok, if you are over 21 and really looking for a festive summertime beverage, then maybe you can (and you didn’t hear this from me) add half a cup of vodka to any of these recipes. Citrus or lemon-flavored vodka would work well…not that I would know.
