Everyone loves lemonade and it’s no surprise that summer and citrus go hand in hand. But why not change things up a bit – save those lemons for later and whip up a batch of limeade!
Mix fresh squeezed lime juice with a sweetener (local honey, simple syrup, agave nectar, etc.) and add a lengthener (soda water, coconut water, etc.). It’s just that easy!
How about muddling in some fresh mint and berries or cilantro with juicy watermelon? Let your creative juices flow! For the grown-ups, a splash of vodka, light rum, silver tequila or gin will do just nicely!
My Minty Lime Cooler is a super easy way to spruce up a limeade using a zesty syrup made with fresh lime zest, mint sprigs, sugar and water. Once it’s cooled, mix in freshly squeezed lime juice and lengthen with water for a truly refreshing sip.
So for this long holiday weekend try mixing it up with a deliciously thirst-quenching pitcher of limeade! -Kathy
Photo by Kathy Casey Liquid Kitchen for Paramount Citrus
Minty Lime Cooler
Zesty lime syrup and fresh mint make for a refreshing drink, perfect for outdoor entertaining.
Makes 8 to 10 servings
3 Tbsp lime zest from Paramount Citrus® limes
8 large sprigs fresh mint
2 cups sugar
2 cups water
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1 1/2 cups freshly squeezed Paramount Citrus lime juice
3 cups water (or substitute soda water if serving right away)
Garnish: lime wedge, fresh mint sprigs
Combine the zest, mint, sugar, and 2 cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a quick boil over high heat. Boil for 1 minute then remove from heat. Let sit for 30 minutes to allow the mint to steep and the syrup to cool.
Remove and discard mint from syrup. In a large pitcher, combine the cooled syrup, lime juice, and 3 cups of water. Serve over ice in a tall glass garnished with lime wedges and mint. Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Recipe developed by Kathy Casey Food Studios® for Paramount Citrus
