Blueberry Lemonade Summer Drink (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main

01 - 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar, adjust to taste
03 - Juice of 4–5 lemons (about 3/4 cup)
04 - Peels of 2–3 lemons, optional
05 - 1 cup water (for simple syrup)
06 - 4 cups cold water

→ Garnish (optional)

07 - Fresh mint leaves
08 - Lemon peels and lemon slices
09 - Extra blueberries

# Instructions:

01 - Thoroughly wash lemons, then peel 2–3 lemons and juice 4–5 lemons to yield approximately 3/4 cup of juice.
02 - In a saucepan, combine blueberries, sugar, 1 cup water, and half the reserved lemon peels. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves and blueberries release juices, about 3–4 minutes.
03 - Remove saucepan from heat. Allow syrup to cool for several minutes. Strain mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, discarding solids.
04 - Pour blueberry simple syrup into a large pitcher. Add lemon juice and 4 cups cold water. Stir well. Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled.
05 - Serve lemonade over ice, garnished with fresh mint, extra blueberries, and lemon slices if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Including strips of lemon peel in the simmering syrup intensifies citrus aroma.
02 - For a more tart beverage, add an additional 1/4 cup of lemon juice.
03 - Both fresh and frozen blueberries are suitable.
04 - For a cocktail variation, include a shot of vodka, rum, or whiskey before serving.
05 - Prepared blueberry lemonade can be refrigerated for up to 1 week.