Mint Lemon Juice (Limonana-Style Drink)
⏱ Time & Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes (optional)
Servings: 4 glasses
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves (packed)
- ½–¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 3 cups cold water (divided)
- 1 cup ice cubes
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Fresh mint sprigs, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Mint Syrup (Recommended for Best Flavor)
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar with ½ cup of the water. Place over medium-low heat and stir gently until the sugar fully dissolves. Once dissolved, add the fresh mint leaves. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 minute, then remove from heat. Let the mint steep in the syrup for 10 minutes to infuse its refreshing oils. Strain out the mint leaves and allow the syrup to cool completely.
Shortcut Option: Skip the syrup and blend fresh mint directly into the drink, then strain. This gives a stronger, greener mint flavor.
2️⃣ Mix the Drink
In a large pitcher, pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Add the cooled mint syrup and stir well. Pour in the remaining 2½ cups of cold water and mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more sugar or water.
3️⃣ Serve
Fill glasses with ice cubes. Pour the mint lemon juice over the ice. Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs for a vibrant presentation. Serve immediately while cold and refreshing.
Optional Variations
- Sparkling Version: Replace 1–2 cups of water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
- Honey Version: Substitute sugar with ½ cup honey for a natural sweetness.
- Frozen Slushie: Blend the drink with extra ice until smooth for a frozen treat.
- Cucumber Twist: Add ½ peeled cucumber while blending for a cooling flavor boost.
Tips for Best Results
Always use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the brightest flavor. Roll lemons firmly on the counter before cutting to extract more juice. Lightly bruise mint leaves before steeping to release more aroma. For deeper flavor, chill the drink for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Refreshing, vibrant, and perfectly balanced — this Mediterranean classic is sunshine in a glass.