Description
A vibrant homemade blueberry lemonade made with real fruit, fresh lemon juice, and a hint of salt for a balanced, refreshing drink.
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh blueberries, plus more for serving
- 1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice (about 6 thin-skinned lemons)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups water
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Blueberry Base
Place 2 cups of fresh blueberries, ½ cup sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan.
Add 1 cup of water and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until blueberries begin to break down and the sugar dissolves completely.
Blend the Mixture
Remove the saucepan from heat.
Carefully transfer the blueberry mixture to a blender.
Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth (about 30 seconds to 1 minute).
Tip: Let the mixture cool slightly if your blender isn’t heat-safe.
Strain for Smoothness (Optional)
Pour the blended blueberry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a large pitcher to remove pulp and seeds, if desired.
Use the back of a spoon to help press the liquid through.
Add Lemon and Water
Stir in 1 cup fresh-squeezed lemon juice and the remaining 3 cups of water.
Mix until well combined.
Taste and adjust with more sugar or lemon juice, depending on your preference.
Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, or until thoroughly chilled.
Serve over ice, garnished with extra blueberries, lemon slices, or fresh mint, if desired.
Notes
Choose ripe, plump blueberries with a deep blue hue for the best flavor.
For maximum juice, roll lemons on the counter before cutting.
Salt might seem unusual but enhances the brightness of the lemon and sweetness of the berries.
You can scale this recipe up easily for a party-size pitcher or punch bowl.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Stovetop, Blended
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: blueberry lemonade, homemade lemonade, summer drink, fresh lemonade