lemonades

Lemonade is a beverage made primarily from lemon juice, water, and a sweetener. It is typically served chilled and can be prepared still or sparkling, depending on whether carbonated water or soda is used. A classic homemade version uses fresh lemon juice, cold water, and sugar or simple syrup; some recipes call for more lemon juice to achieve a tart flavor.

Common variations include pink lemonade, which adds a small amount of fruit juice such as raspberry or strawberry, or a splash of coloring. Other popular flavors incorporate mint, ginger, strawberry, blueberry, or hibiscus. Commercial lemonade may be sold as ready-to-drink products or as a concentrate.

The drink has European roots dating from the early modern period and reached widespread popularity in the United States in the 19th century. In the United States and many other countries, lemonade refers to a lemon juice–based beverage, while in the United Kingdom lemonade more commonly denotes a carbonated lemon-flavored soft drink.

Lemonade is typically high in sugar and calories unless alternatives are used. Fresh lemonade should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. Concentrates and commercially produced versions may have longer shelf lives when unopened; once prepared or opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within several days.