Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with every sip of this Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade! Tart, slightly sweet, and gorgeously pink, this homemade lemonade is an absolute celebration of summer. It ties together the unique tang of fresh rhubarb with the bright zing of lemon, creating a thirst-quenching drink that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious. Whether you’re lounging in the backyard or hosting a festive brunch, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become your new warm-weather favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Rhubarb Syrup:
- 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Lemonade:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–6 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
- lemon slices and fresh mint for garnish (optional)
- ice for serving
How to Make Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade
Step 1: Simmer the Rhubarb Mixture
Start by adding your chopped rhubarb, sugar, and one cup of water into a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rhubarb is tender and has broken down beautifully, turning your kitchen into a fragrant, summery haven.
Step 2: Strain the Syrup
Carefully pour the hot mixture through a fine-mesh sieve set over a large pitcher. Use the back of a spoon to gently press the pulp, making sure you get as much vibrant liquid as possible. What’s left behind is your rich, rosy rhubarb syrup—the real star of this lemonade!
Step 3: Mix with Lemon Juice and Water
Let the syrup cool for a few minutes (it only takes a little patience!). Then stir in the lemon juice and the remaining four cups of cold water. At this stage, take a taste test—adjust the sweetness or tang to your liking by adding more sugar or lemon juice if needed. This is your moment to make the Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade perfectly your own.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Pop your pitcher in the refrigerator and let everything get nice and cold. When you’re ready to serve, pour the lemonade over ice in glasses, making sure to garnish with lemon slices and a sprig of fresh mint if you want that extra flair. Each pour is pure, summery delight!
How to Serve Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade
Garnishes
Elevate the look and fragrance of your Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade by adding a wheel of lemon and a sprig of fresh mint to each glass. The cheerful colors and herby scent will have everyone reaching for a glass before their first sip!
Side Dishes
Pair your lemonade with light, picnic-ready snacks like tea sandwiches, fresh fruit, or a crunchy summer salad. It also shines alongside sweet treats such as berry shortcake or lemon bars, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or special occasions, try serving the Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade in mason jars with paper straws, or create a self-serve lemonade bar with bowls of add-ins like sliced strawberries or extra citrus wedges. Freeze edible flowers or berries into your ice cubes for a whimsical touch guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lemonade and rhubarb syrup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors actually meld and deepen over time, so don’t be surprised if tomorrow’s glass tastes even better than the first!
Freezing
To enjoy that taste of summer year-round, pour the syrup (before adding water and lemon juice) into ice cube trays, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, just thaw a few cubes, mix with water and lemon, and you’re set—instant Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade even out of season.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat the lemonade itself, but if you’re using frozen rhubarb syrup cubes, just let them thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature before mixing. For a warm twist in cooler months, gently heat the syrup with water and add lemon at the end; it turns into a cozy, soothing beverage.
FAQs
Can I use frozen rhubarb for Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade?
Absolutely! Frozen rhubarb works just as well as fresh. No need to thaw—just toss it straight into the saucepan and simmer as you would with fresh rhubarb.
What if I want a sparkling version?
For fizzy Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade, simply replace the cold water with chilled club soda or sparkling water when mixing the syrup. Pour slowly to keep those bubbles lively!
Is there a way to make this lemonade less sweet?
Of course! You can decrease the amount of sugar or use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Taste as you go and adjust until your lemonade reaches your desired level of tang and sweetness.
Can I make this lemonade ahead of time for a party?
Refreshingly yes! Make the rhubarb syrup and prep the lemonade up to a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving over ice for your guests.
How can I make this recipe more kid-friendly or fun?
Get creative with colorful ice cubes, playful straws, or a lemonade stand setup. Let kids help squeeze lemons or add fruit slices—they’ll love being part of your Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade tradition!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience just how special Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade is. With its bold color, crisp flavor, and endless ways to customize, it’s sure to brighten your day and bring everyone together. Go ahead—give it a try and raise a glass to the taste of summer!
Print
Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Refreshing Rhubarb Lemonade is the perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it a delightful summer drink. Made with fresh rhubarb, lemon juice, and a hint of mint, it’s a homemade lemonade that will cool you down on a hot day.
Ingredients
Rhubarb Syrup:
- 4 cups chopped fresh rhubarb (about 1 pound)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
Lemonade:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (from about 4–6 lemons)
- 4 cups cold water
- lemon slices and fresh mint for garnish (optional)
- ice for serving
Instructions
- Rhubarb Syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped rhubarb, sugar, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10–12 minutes until the rhubarb is soft. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a pitcher.
- Lemonade: Add lemon juice and remaining water to the pitcher with the rhubarb syrup. Chill in the fridge. Serve over ice with garnishes.
Notes
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different taste.
- For a fizzy version, swap water with chilled club soda.
- Leftover syrup can be refrigerated for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
