Ingredients:
- 4-5 ripe peaches, peeled and pitted
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups water, divided
- Ice cubes
- Lemon slices and fresh peach slices, for garnish (optional)
- Mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Peaches:
- Wash the peaches thoroughly under running water.
- Peel the peaches using a vegetable peeler or by blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transferring them to an ice bath to cool. The skins should easily peel off.
- Cut the peaches in half and remove the pits.
Blend the Peaches:
- In a blender or food processor, puree the peeled and pitted peaches until smooth.
- Strain the peach puree through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove any pulp or fibers. You should have about 2 cups of peach juice.
Make the Lemonade:
- In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add the strained peach juice to the pitcher and mix well.
Dilute with Water:
- Stir in 3 cups of water to the peach-lemon mixture. Taste and adjust the sweetness and tartness by adding more sugar or lemon juice, if desired.
- Add ice cubes to the pitcher to chill the lemonade, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Serve:
- To serve, fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the peach lemonade over the ice.
- Garnish each glass with a lemon slice, a fresh peach slice, and a sprig of mint, if desired.
- Stir gently before serving to distribute the flavors.
- Enjoy your homemade peach lemonade on a hot summer day! It’s a delightful beverage that’s bursting with fruity flavors and perfect for quenching your thirst.