If you’re searching for a refreshing drink that offers a unique twist, look no further than Pickle Lemonade! This delightful beverage combines the classic flavor of lemonade with a savory kick from dill pickle brine. Perfect for parties, picnics, or just a sunny afternoon at home, Pickle Lemonade is simple to make, undeniably tasty, and can be easily customized to suit your preferences.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 75
Protein: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 19 g
Fat: 0 g
Fiber: 0 g
Sugar: 15 g
Sodium: 150 mg
Why Make Pickle Lemonade
Pickle Lemonade is not only invigorating but also surprisingly healthy. The use of fresh lemon juice provides a burst of vitamin C, while the pickle brine adds electrolytes, making this drink a great option for hydration. Its flavor profile is versatile, too; whether you enjoy it as a refreshing drink alongside your meals or as a creative cocktail mixer, Pickle Lemonade can easily adapt to your preferences.
How to Make Pickle Lemonade Step by Step
Ingredients
¾ cup fresh lemon juice (from 4–5 lemons)
3½ cups cold water
½ cup dill pickle brine
⅓ to ½ cup sugar (to taste)
Ice cubes, for serving
Lemon slices, for garnish
Dill pickle spears, optional for garnish
Directions
Juice lemons and strain out seeds to get about ¾ cup juice.
In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, water, sugar, and pickle brine. Stir until sugar is fully dissolved.
Taste and adjust sweetness or brine as needed.
Chill in the fridge or serve immediately over ice.
Garnish with lemon slices and a pickle spear if desired.
How to Serve Pickle Lemonade
Pickle Lemonade pairs wonderfully with grilled cheese sandwiches or a fresh garden salad. For a fun summer barbecue, serve it alongside burgers and hot dogs for a light and zesty complement. You can even use it as a mixer in cocktails for a quirky twist!
How to Store Pickle Lemonade
Store any leftover Pickle Lemonade in the refrigerator for up to three days. While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can also freeze it in ice cube trays for a quick, chilled addition to future beverages. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge, not the microwave, to preserve flavor.
Expert Tips for Cooking Pickle Lemonade
- Choose ripe lemons for juicing; they’ll yield more juice.
- Adjust sugar based on your preferred sweetness level.
- Experiment with different pickle brines for varying flavor profiles.
- Serve with extra ice to keep it chilled longer on hot days.
- Try using sparkling water instead of still for a fizzy version.
Delicious Variations of Pickle Lemonade
- Spicy Pickle Lemonade: Add a few slices of jalapeño to the mix for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Pickle Lemonade: Infuse the lemonade with sprigs of rosemary or thyme for added complexity.
- Citrus Twist: Combine lemon with lime or orange juice for a citrus medley that brightens the flavor.
Pickle Lemonade is a drink that’s not just a refreshment but also a conversation starter. Its unique blend of savory and sweet flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion. Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy the delightful balance of flavors that Pickle Lemonade has to offer!
Pickle Lemonade
Ingredients
For the Lemonade
- ¾ cup fresh lemon juice (from 4–5 lemons) Juice and strain out seeds.
- 3½ cups cold water
- ½ cup dill pickle brine
- ⅓ to ½ cup sugar (to taste) Adjust sweetness based on preference.
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Lemon slices, for garnish
- Dill pickle spears, optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Juice lemons and strain out seeds to get about ¾ cup juice.
- In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, water, sugar, and pickle brine. Stir until sugar is fully dissolved.
- Taste and adjust sweetness or brine as needed.
- Chill in the fridge or serve immediately over ice.
- Garnish with lemon slices and a pickle spear if desired.
