Nancy Drew Lemonade Disguise
Uncover the mystery of refreshment with "Nancy Drew Lemonade Disguise," a whimsical twist on classic homemade lemonade that blends vibrant flavors with a dash of intrigue. This recipe starts with the bright zing of freshly squeezed lemons and a fragrant herb-infused syrup made from basil and mint, balanced perfectly with just the right amount of sweetness. For a playful, enigmatic touch, optional blueberry juice can transform the lemonade into a captivating, purplish hue that’s sure to surprise and delight. Topped off with a fizzy splash of sparkling water, this colorful concoction is perfect for summer gatherings, book club soirées, or lazy afternoons spent sleuthing for the perfect drink. Garnished with lemon wheels and sprigs of fresh herbs, it’s as stunning as it is refreshing. Ready in just 20 minutes, this 6-serving lemonade invites you to sip, savor, and solve the case of ultimate thirst-quenching.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 whole lemons
- 0.75 cups granulated sugar
- 0.25 cups fresh basil leaves
- 0.25 cups fresh mint leaves
- 4 cups cold water
- 2 cups sparkling water
- 2 cups ice cubes
- 0.25 cups blueberry juice or concentrate (optional for color disguise)
- 6 slices lemon wheels (for garnish)
- 6 sprigs fresh herb sprigs (basil or mint for garnish)
Instructions
Roll the lemons on a countertop to release their juices, then cut each lemon in half and juice them into a measuring cup. You should have approximately 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Set aside.
In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, basil leaves, and mint leaves with 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring continuously, until the sugar dissolves completely (2-3 minutes). Remove from heat and let the mixture steep for 5 minutes, allowing the herbs to infuse the syrup.
Strain the herb-infused syrup through a fine mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove the leaves.
Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the pitcher with the syrup, followed by the remaining 3 cups of cold water. Stir well to combine.
If you'd like to add a colorful disguise to your lemonade, stir in the blueberry juice or concentrate, which will give the drink a purplish hue.
Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow the flavors to meld.
Just before serving, gently stir in the sparkling water for a fizzy finish and add the ice cubes to keep it refreshing.
Pour the lemonade into glasses, garnish with lemon wheels and fresh herb sprigs, and serve immediately. Enjoy your Nancy Drew-inspired beverage!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
766 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.8 g | 2% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 82 mg | 4% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 205.6 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.3 g | 62% | |
| Total Sugars | 169.6 g | ||
| Protein | 9.1 g | 18% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 390 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 8.9 mg | 49% | |
| Potassium | 1048 mg | 22% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
