Blood Orange Lemonade (Printable Version)
Vibrant citrus drink combining sweet-tart blood oranges with fresh lemon for a refreshing beverage perfect for warm weather.
# What You Need:
→ Citrus Base
01 - 1 cup freshly squeezed blood orange juice (approximately 4-5 medium oranges)
02 - 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (approximately 2 medium lemons)
→ Simple Syrup
03 - 1/3 cup granulated white sugar
04 - 1/2 cup water
→ Assembly & Garnish
05 - 3 cups cold water or sparkling water
06 - Ice cubes as needed
07 - Fresh blood orange and lemon slices for garnish
08 - Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
# How-To:
01 - Combine sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan. Place over medium heat, stirring continuously until sugar completely dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.
02 - In a large pitcher, mix together the freshly squeezed blood orange juice and lemon juice until well blended.
03 - Pour the cooled sugar syrup into the citrus mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of sweetness throughout the base.
04 - Add the cold water or sparkling water to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine all liquids into a uniform mixture.
05 - Taste the lemonade and modify sweetness or acidity as preferred. Add additional sugar dissolved in a small amount of water or more citrus juice as needed.
06 - Fill serving glasses generously with ice cubes. Pour the prepared lemonade over the ice, filling each glass.
07 - Decorate each serving with fresh blood orange rounds, lemon slices, and mint sprigs. Serve immediately while chilled.
# Expert Hints:
01 -
- The stunning ruby color makes every glass feel like a celebration
- Blood oranges bring this haunting floral sweetness that regular oranges cant match
02 -
- Sugar needs to be fully dissolved before cooling, otherwise it sinks to the bottom of your serving pitcher
- Blood orange season runs from December to April, so grab them when you see them and juice any extras for freezing
03 -
- Roll the citrus on your counter before juicing to maximize every drop
- Mix the pitcher just before serving since the citrus pulp naturally settles