A refreshingly fragrant lemonade infused with the subtle citrusy notes of lemon basil—a perfect cooling beverage for warm days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lemonade is exceptionally invigorating, showcasing the aromatic depth of lemon basil alongside bright lemon flavor. It’s easy and quick to assemble, and the flavor intensifies with gentle chilling, making it even more delightful over time. Tasting Table+5Letty’s Kitchen+5Girl Gone Gourmet+5

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
½ cup lemon basil leaves
¼ cup cane sugar
Zest of 3–4 lemons
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
4 cups water or sparkling water

directions

1. In a bowl, muddle the lemon basil leaves, sugar, and lemon zest until the basil is well bruised and flavors begin to release.

2. Transfer the mixture to a pitcher, add lemon juice and water (or sparkling water—see note), and stir gently.

3. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to infuse fully.

4. Strain into glasses filled with ice and serve.

Note: If using sparkling water, substitute part of the water and add it just before serving to preserve fizz. Letty’s KitchenReddit

Servings and timing

Makes about 4 (8-ounce) servings. Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes; chilling time adds about an hour. The Times+3Letty’s Kitchen+3alexguarnaschelli.com+3

Variations

• Substitute lemon basil with regular basil, mint, or a combination of both. Wikipedia+15Letty’s Kitchen+15Cake ‘n Knife+15

• Use sparkling water for a fizzy version—add it just before serving to maximize effervescence.

storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator in a sealed pitcher for up to 3 days. Serve cold; there is no reheating required.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular basil instead of lemon basil?

Yes—you may substitute basil, mint, or a mix of both with very good results. alexguarnaschelli.com+15Letty’s Kitchen+15Cake ‘n Knife+15

2. How long should it steep before serving?

Let it chill and infuse for at least one hour; this allows flavors to meld for a more robust taste. Letty’s Kitchen

3. Can I make this with sparkling water?

Absolutely. If using sparkling water, add part of it at the end, just before serving, to preserve the fizziness. Letty’s Kitchen

4. How long will this keep in the fridge?

It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

5. Can I sweeten it with honey or another sweetener?

Yes. Honey or agave can be used to replace cane sugar; adjust to taste.

6. Is the sugar necessary?

The sugar balances the tartness of lemon; you may reduce it to taste, but some sweetness is recommended.

7. Can I skip straining the lemonade?

Yes—you can serve it as is. Just be aware that basil bits and lemon zest will remain in the drink.

8. Can I make it ahead for a party?

Certainly—prepare and chill it ahead of time, and add sparkling water just before serving if using.

9. Is this healthy?

It’s moderately healthy and hydrating, though it contains sugar. Use less sugar or alternative sweeteners if desired.

10. Can I use lime instead?

Yes—substituting lime juice and zest creates a lime‑basil variation with lovely freshness.

Conclusion

This Lemon Basil Lemonade is a beautifully aromatic and citrus-forward refreshment, easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Whether served still or sparkling, it’s sure to delight, especially on warm afternoons.

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Lemon Garlic Green Beans

Short description

A crisp, flavorful side dish of green beans sautéed with garlic, butter, and lemon—a quick and sophisticated accompaniment to many meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers bright, savory flavor with minimal effort. The combination of lemon, garlic, and butter adds zest and richness, while light blanching preserves crisp texture and vivid color. Ready in just 15 minutes. Love and Lemons+5Vikalinka+5Epicurious+5

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Green beans (about 1.5 pounds), trimmed
Butter (2 tablespoons)
Olive oil (1–2 tablespoons)
Fresh lemon juice (4 teaspoons or 1 tablespoon)
Garlic powder (½ teaspoon) or minced garlic (3 cloves)
Kosher salt (¼–½ teaspoon)
Ground black pepper (¼–½ teaspoon)

directions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for about 3 minutes, then plunge into ice water to stop cooking and retain color. The Times+6Love and Lemons+6Food Network+6The Times+8She Wears Many Hats+8The Australian+8

2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil. Add garlic (powder or minced) and sauté briefly until fragrant. She Wears Many HatsTasting Table

3. Add the green beans, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat and cook for 3–5 minutes until heated through and flavorful. She Wears Many HatsTasting Table

4. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Yields approximately 4 servings. Prep time: 5 minutes. Cook time: 10 minutes. Total: 15 minutes. She Wears Many HatsTasting Table

Variations

• Use garlic powder or minced garlic depending on your preference. She Wears Many HatsTasting Table

• Try lemon butter sauce instead—melt butter, sauté garlic, then add lemon juice and slices. Vikalinka

• Add red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, or substitute with lemon zest and Dijon for a tangier profile. Kalyn’s KitchenLove and Lemons

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop; note that beans may soften slightly upon reheating. Vikalinka

FAQs

1. Should I blanch the beans before sautéing?

Yes—blanching for a few minutes followed by an ice bath preserves crispness and vibrant color. EatingWell+1

2. Can I skip the butter?

Yes—simply use olive oil instead, though butter adds a richer flavor.

3. Can I use garlic powder?

Absolutely. Garlic powder works well if you prefer a subtler garlic flavor. Glamour

4. Is lemon juice necessary?

Yes—it brightens and balances the richness of butter and garlic, enhancing flavor.

5. How firm should the beans be?

They should remain slightly crisp. Cook until heated through but still tender-crisp.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—blanch the beans ahead and finish with sauce just before serving. Kalyn’s Kitchen+2alexguarnaschelli.com+2Glamour+8The Times+8Tasting Table+8

7. How long will leftovers last?

Stored in the refrigerator, they keep well for up to 4 days. Vikalinka

8. Can I freeze these green beans?

Freezing is not recommended, as it may affect texture negatively.

9. Can I add herbs like thyme or Parmesan?

Yes—fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the flavor. Simply Recipes+1

10. Can this be air-fried instead?

Yes—air-fried green beans seasoned with garlic and lemon zest are another quick and tasty alternative. She Wears Many Hats+5Epicurious+5Food Network+5

Conclusion

This Lemon Garlic Green Beans recipe is an elegant and effortless way to elevate a humble vegetable. With its bright citrus notes and savory undertones, it’s a versatile side that pairs beautifully with many main dishes and comes together in under 20 minutes.

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