Many lemonade recipes use simple syrup, but I prefer to use juice, sugar, and water. I never know how much juice I’m going to end up with, but it’s really easy when I use this simple ratio. I also don’t have to worry about leftover simple syrup in the back of my fridge that I’ll inevitably forget about and never use. It’s a complete myth that sugar won’t dissolve in cold water. It just takes longer than with hot or warm water.
Mix all the ingredients together in a pitcher.
1 part lemon and/or lime juice (I don’t have a fancy juicer, just this one from Walmart.)
1 part sugar
5 parts water and/or ice
I usually let the lemonade chill for 4 hours, stirring occasionally with a whisk, before enjoying it. If you want to add ice later, only use 4 parts of water to start.
Add some lemon or lime slices if you’re feeling fancy. Crushed strawberries are also nice.
Note: I strain the juice to make sure no seeds get into my lemonade. Lemons have seeds but limes don’t. Here’s an interesting article that tells why.
Looking for a snack to go with your lemonade? Try one of these recipes.


The Easiest Lemonade (or Limeade)
Equipment
- pitcher
- juicer
Ingredients
- 1 part lemon and/or lime juice freshly squeezed
- 1 part sugar
- 5 parts water and/or ice
Instructions
- Mix all of the ingredients together in a large pitcher. Stir occasionally and chill until ready to serve.1 part lemon and/or lime juice, 1 part sugar, 5 parts water and/or ice