Refreshing, zesty, and invigorating, Lemon Mint Juice is the perfect drink to cool down on a hot day or cleanse your system any time of year. Made with freshly squeezed lemon juice, aromatic mint leaves, a touch of natural sweetener, and ice-cold water, this vibrant drink strikes a beautiful balance between tangy and sweet. Whether enjoyed as a detox beverage, a welcome drink, or a midday refresher, lemon mint juice is a quick and easy recipe that never fails to energize.
Ingredients
| Fresh Lemons | 3-4 medium |
|---|---|
| Fresh Mint Leaves | ½ - ¾ cup, packed |
| Granulated Sugar | ¼ - ½ cup (50-100g) |
| Cold Water | 3-4 cups (720-960 ml) |
| Ice Cubes | For serving |
| Lemon Slices | Optional Garnishes |
| Fresh Mint Sprigs | Optional Garnishes |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Lemons and Mint
- Wash the lemons thoroughly. Roll them firmly on a counter before cutting to help release more juice.
- Cut the lemons in half and squeeze out the juice. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any seeds and large pulp.
You should aim for about ½ cup of fresh lemon juice. - Wash the fresh mint leaves thoroughly and gently pat them dry. Separate the leaves from the stems.
Step 2: Blend the Ingredients
- In a blender, combine the fresh lemon juice, fresh mint leaves, granulated sugar (start with ¼ cup and adjust later), and 3 cups of cold water.
- Blend on high speed for about 30-60 seconds. Be careful not to over-blend the mint, as it can make the juice bitter. You just want the mint leaves to be finely chopped and infused into the liquid.
Step 3: Strain and Adjust Sweetness
- Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large pitcher or bowl.
- Pour the blended mixture through the sieve, using the back of a spoon to press down on the pulp to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the leftover pulp.
- Taste the juice. If it's too concentrated, add the remaining 1 cup of cold water. If it's not sweet enough, add more sugar (or honey) a tablespoon at a time, stirring until dissolved, until it reaches your desired sweetness. If it's too sweet, add a bit more lemon juice.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate the lemon mint juice for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to fully meld and to ensure it's well chilled.
- To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour in the lemon mint juice.
- Garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint sprigs if desired.
Extra Tips for Perfect Lemon Mint Juice
- Mint Intensity: If you prefer a stronger mint flavor, you can muddle some mint leaves directly in the pitcher before adding the strained juice, or simply use more leaves in the blender.
- Simple Syrup: For easier blending and a smoother dissolve, especially in cold drinks, you can make a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and hot water, stirred until dissolved, then cooled) and use that instead of granulated sugar.
- Sparkling Version: For a refreshing spritzer, mix the concentrated lemon mint juice with sparkling water or club soda instead of still water.
- Additions:
- Ginger: A small piece of fresh ginger (1-inch piece) blended with the lemon and mint can add a warming, zesty kick.
- Rosewater: A few drops of food-grade rosewater can add a subtle floral note, common in some Middle Eastern drinks.
- Cucumber: A few slices of cucumber blended with the mix can add another layer of refreshing flavor.
- Storage: Store leftover lemon mint juice in an airtight pitcher or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The mint flavor may intensify slightly over time.
Nutritional Value
(per serving, based on 4 servings, with 1/4 cup sugar)
| Calories | 60-80 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 0-1 grams |
| Fat | 0 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 15-20 grams |
| Fiber | 0-1 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ Boosts Hydration: A delicious way to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather or after exercise.
- ✅ Aids Digestion: Both lemon and mint stimulate digestive enzymes and soothe the stomach.
- ✅ Supports Detoxification: Lemon acts as a natural detoxifier, while mint helps flush out toxins.
- ✅ Rich in Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
- ✅ Low in Calories: Naturally light and free from artificial ingredients, making it ideal for weight management.
Lemon Mint Juice is more than just a refreshing drink — it’s a delicious and healthful habit that can easily become part of your daily routine. Whether you’re starting your day with a detox boost, serving it to guests, or sipping it poolside, this cooling beverage delivers clean flavor and feel-good benefits in every glass.
Explore more natural drink recipes, immune-boosting beverages, and low-calorie refreshers on our site. Be sure to save your favorite variations and enjoy the revitalizing taste of lemon and mint all year long!