Description
This refreshing Honeydew Lemonade combines the tangy zest of fresh lemons with the sweet, mellow flavor of honeydew melon. Perfect for hot summer days, this homemade lemonade uses a simple sugar syrup and fresh fruit juices to create a beautifully balanced, naturally flavored beverage that serves eight and can be chilled or served over ice for instant refreshment.
Ingredients
Scale
Sugar Syrup
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
Fresh Juice
- 1 1/4 cups fresh lemon juice (from approximately 6-8 lemons)
- 1 cup fresh honeydew melon juice (from about 1/4 of a medium honeydew melon)
Other
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes (optional, for serving)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Make Sugar Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 2 cups of water. Heat over medium heat until it simmers and the sugar dissolves completely, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Extract Lemon Juice: While the sugar syrup is heating, squeeze fresh lemons to get 1 1/4 cups of juice. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp for a smooth texture.
- Prepare Honeydew Juice: Using a juicer or blender, prepare 1 cup of fresh honeydew juice. If using a blender, cut the honeydew melon into large cubes, removing rind and seeds, then blend at high speed until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove any pulp.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice, 4 cups of cold water, the cooled sugar syrup, and 1 cup of fresh honeydew juice.
- Mix and Chill: Stir all ingredients thoroughly to combine. Add lemon slices for garnish if desired. Refrigerate to chill, or add ice cubes just before serving.
- Serve: Pour the honeydew lemonade over ice for a refreshing summer beverage. If preparing ahead, store in the refrigerator without ice and add ice cubes to individual glasses when ready to serve.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh lemons and honeydew melon that is ripe and sweet.
- Adjust sugar amount to taste depending on desired sweetness.
- Straining juices helps achieve a smooth, pulp-free lemonade.
- Can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves for an aromatic twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
