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Ingredients
- Fresh pineapple: 1 cup, chopped, for a sweet tropical flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice: 1/2 cup (about 4-5 lemons), adds a tart contrast to the sweetness.
- Sugar: 1/3 cup, or to taste, for balancing the tartness of the lemon.
- Cold water: 4 cups, dilutes the lemonade to a refreshing consistency.
- Ice cubes: To serve, for keeping the drink chilled.
- Lemon slices and pineapple chunks: For garnish, adding a decorative touch.
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a blender, combine the chopped pineapple, fresh lemon juice, and sugar. Blend the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
- Step 2:
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher to remove any pulp, resulting in a smoother drink.
- Step 3:
- Add the cold water to the pitcher and stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Step 4:
- Serve the lemonade over ice in glasses. Garnish each glass with lemon slices and pineapple chunks for a decorative and flavorful touch.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve chilled over ice for the most refreshing experience.
- Garnish with additional lemon slices or pineapple chunks to elevate presentation.
- Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- If making ahead, add ice just before serving to prevent dilution.
Helpful Notes
- Adjust the sugar according to taste; more sugar can be added for a sweeter lemonade, or reduce for a tangier version.
- For a sparkling twist, substitute half of the water with sparkling water right before serving.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, blend and strain the pineapple juice separately before adding to the lemonade.
Tips from Well-known Chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using fresh ingredients to capture the vibrant flavors of the fruit.
- Bartender Jamie Boudreau recommends adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness and depth of flavor in citrus-based drinks.
- Chef Ina Garten suggests garnishing with fresh herbs like mint or basil for an aromatic twist.