Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the zest of lemons with the fresh, herbal flavors of mint and rosemary, creating a sophisticated and aromatic lemonade. The addition of vanilla adds a smooth sweetness that elevates the drink, making it unique and unforgettable. It’s simple to prepare, with only a bit of prep work required, and the result is a delicious, refreshing beverage that everyone will love.

Mint and Rosemary Lemonade with Vanilla

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 large lemons, washed and sliced in 1/2 inch slices
1 cup Sucanat, natural sugar, or granulated sugar
10 sprigs of fresh mint
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, more as a garnish
1/2 vanilla bean, scraped seeds (or 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract)
8 cups of cold water
Ice

Directions

Place a medium mesh strainer over a bowl and set it aside.
Scrape the seeds of the vanilla bean and place them in a small bowl, ensuring to save the vanilla pod.
Add the lemon slices, sugar, mint, rosemary, vanilla seeds, and the scraped vanilla pod into the strainer.
Using your clean hands, gently massage the lemons to release their juices and mix all the ingredients together.
Cover the strainer with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight.
In the morning, massage the lemons again to release the remaining juice. Strain the mixture and discard the solids.
Pour the concentrated lemon juice into a large pitcher and stir in 8 cups of cold water.
Serve over ice in mason jars and garnish with fresh rosemary.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus 3-4 hours of refrigeration)

Variations

Sweeteners: You can substitute Sucanat with honey, maple syrup, or agave for a different sweetness.
Herbal Infusions: Try experimenting with other herbs like basil or thyme for a different twist.
Fruity Add-ins: Add a handful of strawberries or raspberries to the mix for a fruity variation.
Sparkling Lemonade: For a bubbly version, substitute still water with sparkling water or club soda.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover lemonade in an airtight container or pitcher in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This recipe is best enjoyed chilled and doesn’t require reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I use bottled lemon juice for this recipe?

Using fresh lemons will provide the best flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be substituted if needed.

2. Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?

Yes! It’s ideal to refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld together.

3. How can I adjust the sweetness of this lemonade?

If you prefer a sweeter lemonade, you can increase the amount of sugar or sweetener you use, or add a splash of honey or maple syrup.

4. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh mint and rosemary?

Fresh herbs work best for this recipe, but if you must use dried, reduce the quantity to about 1/3 of the amount listed.

5. Is there a way to make this lemonade Club Soda?

This recipe is club soda as it is. However, you can easily transform it into a cocktail by adding a frech mint or tonic water.

6. How long can I store the lemonade in the fridge?

You can store the lemonade in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, the flavor may begin to degrade.

7. Can I freeze this lemonade?

Yes, you can freeze the lemonade in ice cube trays or a freezer-safe container for later use.

8. What can I use as a substitute for vanilla bean?

Vanilla extract can be used as a substitute; use about 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for half a vanilla bean.

9. Is this recipe vegan?

Yes! This lemonade is vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products.

10. Can I add other fruits to this lemonade?

Absolutely! You can add fruits like strawberries, peaches, or even cucumbers for added flavor and color.

Conclusion

This Mint and Rosemary Lemonade with Vanilla is the perfect refreshing drink for any occasion. With its herbal and vanilla-infused flavors, it offers a unique twist on traditional lemonade. Whether you’re serving it for a crowd or enjoying a solo moment of relaxation, this drink will surely be a hit!