Description

This Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade is a delightful blend of tart rhubarb and zesty lemon juice, sweetened just right and perfect for a hot summer day. Made on the stovetop by simmering fresh rhubarb with sugar to create a fragrant syrup, then mixed with freshly squeezed lemon juice and chilled. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and mint for a cool, invigorating drink that’s naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Ingredients

Scale

Rhubarb Syrup

2 cups chopped rhubarb (about 4 stalks)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups water

Lemonade

2 cups water
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–5 lemons)
Ice cubes, as needed
Lemon slices and fresh mint for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare Rhubarb Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, and 2 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar and prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the rhubarb softens and the liquid turns a pink hue, releasing a fragrant aroma.
Strain the Syrup: Remove the saucepan from heat. Place a fine mesh sieve over a pitcher and carefully strain the rhubarb mixture, pressing gently on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the rhubarb pulp left behind in the sieve.
Mix Lemonade: Stir in the remaining 2 cups of water along with the freshly squeezed lemon juice into the rhubarb syrup. Taste the lemonade and adjust the sweetness by adding a little more sugar if desired, stirring to dissolve.
Chill the Lemonade: Place the lemonade in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and serve cold.
Serve: Pour the rhubarb lemonade over ice cubes in glasses. Garnish each glass with lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs for an attractive presentation and added freshness.

Notes

For a sparkling variation, substitute half of the water with club soda or sparkling water just before serving to add effervescence.
Rhubarb syrup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week for convenience.
Add a splash of gin or vodka to the lemonade to create a refreshing adult cocktail version.