Lemonade is a refreshing and classic summertime beverage loved by many. However, not all lemonades are created equal. Store-bought or powdered lemonade mixes often contain artificial flavors and preservatives, making them less healthy and flavorful. That's why nothing beats the taste of southern fresh squeezed lemonade. This homemade lemonade recipe is simple, all-natural, and full of zesty citrus flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can make a pitcher of this delicious southern drink that will quench your thirst and leave you feeling refreshed.
Main Ingredients: Sugar, Fresh Lemon Juice, Fresh Lime Juice, Fresh Mint
Nothing says summer like a tall glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade. And what better way to enjoy it than alongside a perfectly cooked beer can chicken? This classic drink is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
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Back Yard Tea
Main Ingredients: Spiced Rum, Iced Tea, Lemonade
For those who prefer a little kick in their drink, try a Back Yard Tea. This refreshing cocktail combines lemonade, iced tea, and a splash of bourbon for a twist on the traditional Arnold Palmer. Sipping on this while enjoying a delicious beer can chicken is the perfect way to kick back and relax on a warm summer day.
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Fresh Squeezed Lemonade with Mint
Main Ingredients: Water, Sugar, Lemonade, Fresh Mint Leaves
For a refreshing twist on the classic lemonade, add in some fresh mint leaves. The mint adds a subtle hint of freshness to the drink, making it the perfect pairing for a flavorful beer can chicken. Plus, this drink is a crowd-pleaser and will be sure to impress your guests.
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Kentucky Peach Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Peach, Peach Vodka, Lemonade, Simple Syrup, Bourbon
For a taste of the south, try a Kentucky Peach Cocktail. This drink combines peach schnapps, bourbon, and lemonade for a sweet and boozy beverage. The peach flavors complement the savory flavors of the chicken, making it a match made in heaven.
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Southern Shandy
Main Ingredients: Ice, Lemonade, Brandy
A classic beer cocktail, the Southern Shandy is a refreshing blend of beer and lemonade. This drink is light, crisp, and perfect for a hot summer day. Sip on this while enjoying a juicy beer can chicken for the ultimate summer meal.
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Southern Spiked Peach Iced Tea
Main Ingredients: Ice, Vodka, Iced Tea, Lemonade, Peach, Lemon, Fresh Mint
For a more potent version of the Back Yard Tea, try a Southern Spiked Peach Iced Tea. This cocktail combines peach vodka, iced tea, and lemonade for a deliciously fruity and boozy drink. It's the perfect way to cool off while enjoying a delicious beer can chicken.
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Fresh-Squeezed Lemonade
Main Ingredients: Lemon Juice, Sugar, Boiling Water, Cold Water
If you can't get enough of the classic lemonade, try making your own fresh-squeezed version. Squeeze the juice of several lemons and mix it with some sugar and water for a simple, yet delicious, homemade lemonade. It's the perfect complement to a flavorful beer can chicken.
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Southern Breeze
Main Ingredients: Kool Aid, Sugar, Water, Lemonade, Pineapple Juice
This light and refreshing cocktail is the perfect way to cool off on a hot day. Made with vodka, lemonade, and a splash of cranberry juice, the Southern Breeze is a fruity and slightly tart drink that pairs perfectly with a flavorful beer can chicken.
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Fresh Fruit Paletas and a Tropical Margarita Bar
Main Ingredients: Lemonade, Mint Leaves, Lemons, Passion Fruit, Limes
For a Mexican-inspired twist, serve up some fresh fruit paletas alongside a tropical margarita bar. The sweetness of the paletas and the tanginess of the margaritas will complement the flavors of the beer can chicken, creating a delicious and unique meal.
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Green Demon
Main Ingredients: Midori, Vodka, White Rum, Lemonade
This vibrant green cocktail is a refreshing blend of gin, lemonade, and green apple liqueur. It's the perfect drink for those who prefer something a little more tart and tangy. Sip on this while enjoying a succulent beer can chicken for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Pink Drink
Main Ingredients: Pineapple Juice, Lemonade, Sprite
For a fun and fruity drink, try a Pink Drink. This cocktail combines vodka, lemonade, cranberry juice, and a splash of peach schnapps for a sweet and refreshing beverage. The pink color adds a fun touch to any summer gathering and pairs perfectly with a delicious beer can chicken.
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Fruit Tingle Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Vodka, Liqueur, Lemonade, Raspberry Cordial
The name says it all – this cocktail is a burst of fruity flavors that will tingle your taste buds. Made with vodka, lemonade, blue Curacao, and raspberry liqueur, the Fruit Tingle Cocktail is a colorful and flavorful drink that pairs perfectly with a flavorful beer can chicken.
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Carolina Blue Cocktail
Main Ingredients: Blue Curaco, Gin, Lemonade, Lime
This cocktail is a refreshing blend of blue Curacao, lemonade, and vodka. The blue color makes it a fun and unique addition to any summer gathering, and the flavors complement the savory flavors of the beer can chicken. Sip on this while enjoying a delicious meal with friends and family.
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Unicorn Lemonade
Main Ingredients: Water, Food Coloring, Corn Syrup, Lemonade, Sprinkles
For a drink that is sure to impress, try making Unicorn Lemonade. This colorful and whimsical drink is made with lemonade, vodka, and a variety of colorful juices and syrups. It's the perfect addition to a summer barbecue, especially when served alongside a flavorful beer can chicken.
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Whiskey Lemonade
Main Ingredients: Whiskey, Lemonade, Fresh Rosemary, Ice
If you're a fan of whiskey, then this drink is for you. The Whiskey Lemonade is a simple yet delicious blend of whiskey and lemonade. It's the perfect way to enjoy your favorite liquor while also quenching your thirst. Pair it with a flavorful beer can chicken for a satisfying meal.
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Bourbon Lemonade
Main Ingredients: Lemonade, Club Soda, Bourbon, Mint, Lemons
For a twist on the classic whiskey lemonade, try a Bourbon Lemonade. This drink combines bourbon with lemonade and a splash of ginger beer for a deliciously spicy and refreshing beverage. It's the perfect way to cool off on a hot day while also enjoying a flavorful beer can chicken.
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Lemonade
Main Ingredients: Lemon, Water, Sugar, Orange Flower Water, Carbonated
Of course, we can't forget the classic lemonade. Whether you prefer it plain or with a twist, lemonade is the perfect drink to enjoy with a savory beer can chicken. It's simple, refreshing, and the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day.
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Tiffany Punch
Main Ingredients: Lemonade, Berry
This bright blue cocktail is perfect for any special occasion. Made with blue Curacao, lemonade, and vodka, the Tiffany Punch is a colorful and flavorful drink that will impress your guests. Serve it alongside a delicious beer can chicken for a meal that is sure to please.
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Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini
Main Ingredients: Ice, Fresh Lemon, Raspberry Vodka, Absolut Citron
For a more sophisticated drink, try a Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini. Made with raspberry vodka, lemonade, and a splash of triple sec, this cocktail is sweet, tart, and perfect for sipping on while enjoying a flavorful beer can chicken.
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Ocean Water Blue Punch
Main Ingredients: Koolaid, Lemonade, Sprite
This vibrant blue punch is a fun and refreshing drink for any summer gathering. Made with lemonade, vodka, and blue Curacao, the Ocean Water Blue Punch is a tropical and fruity drink that pairs perfectly with a succulent beer can chicken. Plus, the blue color adds a fun touch to any party.
The Perfect Lemonade Ratio
Ingredients:
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup granulated sugar
4 cups water
Ice
To make the perfect southern fresh squeezed lemonade, you need the perfect ratio of lemon juice, sugar, and water. Begin by juicing enough lemons to get 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. The amount of lemons needed will depend on their size and juiciness. Make sure to strain the lemon juice to remove any pulp or seeds.
In a separate pitcher, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 cup of hot water until the sugar is completely dissolved. This simple syrup will sweeten the lemonade evenly and prevent the sugar from settling at the bottom of the pitcher.
Next, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, and 4 cups of cold water in a pitcher. Stir well and taste the lemonade. If it is too sweet, add more water, or if it is too tart, add more sugar. Adjust the ratio to your liking.
Once you have the perfect balance of sweet and tart, add ice to the pitcher to chill the lemonade and serve. You can also garnish with lemon slices or mint leaves for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Why Fresh Squeezed is Best
Using fresh squeezed lemon juice in this recipe is what sets it apart from other lemonades. Freshly squeezed lemon juice has a bolder and more vibrant flavor compared to bottled lemon juice. It also contains more nutrients and antioxidants, making this southern drink a healthier choice.
The simple act of squeezing lemons also adds a personal touch to this homemade lemonade. It shows that you put effort and care into making the drink, making it taste even better.
In conclusion, this southern fresh squeezed lemonade recipe is a must-try for any lemonade lovers. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors and the use of fresh ingredients, it is sure to become your go-to drink for hot summer days. So, grab some lemons and give this recipe a try – you won't be disappointed.