Fresh Squeezed Lemonade Recipe for a Hot Sunny Day

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On a hot sunny day there’s nothing like a fresh squeezed lemonade shakeup recipe to enjoy while outside basking in the sun. We’ve finally got our first warm sunny day with temperatures above 70 degrees and let me tell you right now it’s wonderful. We’re supposed to have this beautiful weather for the next week or so – so if this blog seems a little neglected that very well could be the reason why!

I’m not sure what it is about lemonade that makes it the perfect compliment to when we’re outside grilling on a charcoal grill and enjoying a little barbecue picnic. Fresh squeezed lemonade is also perfect for sitting out on the front porch or the back deck while working outside or watching the kids play on their swing set.

So, to celebrate this beautiful day, here’s my favorite fresh squeezed lemonade shake up recipe to make an entire gallon for you and friends and family to enjoy:

You Will Need:
A nice big pitcher
12 Lemons at room temperature
Cold water
2 cups sugar or sugar substitute (As much as I try to be sugar free completely lemonade does need a little sweetener added to it! You may want to use more or less depending on the tartness of the lemons and your own preferences)
Ice

Directions:

1. Juice the Lemons: There are a few ways to get the fresh squeezed juice out of the lemons. For the best results, the lemons should be at room temperature. (You can cook them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds which may also help. You will then also want to roll them on a table to help the fibers break apart and get the juice flowing. There are all types of lemon juicers available from motorized to the standard type of citrus juicers. You can usually get them pretty cheap – less than $1 if you get a secondhand one or $5-$6 for a plastic one at the store. You simply cut the lemons in half and then turn it over the juicer, which will collect the juice for you.

2. Mix juice and sugar: I’ve found I like to mix the juice and the sugar on their own. This is the part that makes me call it a “shakeup” recipe. If you cover the container and shake it really hard I’ve found that’s the best way to make sure the sugar and the lemon juice is mixed together the best. Just be careful not to spill all the lemon juice you worked so hard on squeezing!

3. Add Ice and Water: Once the lemon juice and sugar is mixed, you are ready to add the water. I usually use a 2 quart pitcher and so just fill it up to the top line with water. Then using a wooden spoon I stir it all together. I do not like ice cubes in my drinks, but I’ve learned that this is just some weird strange quirk unique to me. Most people like ice in their drinks, and so assuming that you are “normal” you would pour it over glasses of ice. You can then decide to garnish with fresh lemon wedges or slices.

So there you have it, a fresh squeezed lemonade recipe for a hot sunny day. Enjoy!