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Fresh Lemonade with Lemon Juice for 1 Glass

This recipe delivers authentic, refreshing lemonade in minutes with just a handful of ingredients. What makes it special is the balance: bright and punchy from real lemon juice, sweetened just right, and chilled to perfection.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Total Time 3 minutes
Servings: 1 glass
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 52
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2.5 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 7 ounces cold water
  • 1.5 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 5 ice cubes
  • 1 fresh lemon slice for garnish optional

Equipment

  • 1 tall glass (8-10 ounces)
  • 1 measuring spoon set
  • 1 measuring cup
  • 1 small spoon or bar spoon for stirring
  • 1 citrus juicer or lemon squeezer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Fill your glass with ice cubes or crushed ice.
  2. Add 6 to 8 ounces of cold water to the glass over the ice.
  3. Measure out 1 to 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar depending on your sweetness preference.
  4. Pour the measured sugar into your glass of water.
  5. Cut a fresh lemon in half and squeeze out 2 to 3 tablespoons of juice directly into the glass.
  6. Use a spoon to stir the mixture for about 15 to 20 seconds, making sure the sugar dissolves completely into the liquid.
  7. Take a small sip and evaluate the balance of sweetness and tartness. Add a splash more water if it's too strong, another squeeze of lemon if you want more tartness, or a teaspoon more sugar if you prefer it sweeter.
  8. Top with a fresh lemon slice if desired and serve immediately while the drink is still cold.

Notes

Use room-temperature lemons and roll them on the counter before cutting to release more juice. Make simple syrup ahead of time by dissolving sugar in hot water for instant sweetening without grittiness. Add a tiny pinch of salt to enhance the lemon flavor and balance the sweetness. Use filtered water if your tap water is heavily chlorinated. Fresh lemonade tastes best within 15 minutes of mixing.