6 irresistible lemonade recipes and variations you'll sip all summer long

It's (unofficially) summer and I'm thirsty for lemonade, limeade and orangeade. I know how much we all love a good cocktail: the proof is in the love you've shown for these 6 spring cocktails and also these 10 margarita recipes. Sometime…

6 irresistible lemonade recipes and variations you'll sip all summer long

It's (unofficially) summer and I'm thirsty for lemonade, limeade and orangeade. I know how much we all love a good cocktail: the proof is in the love you've shown for these 6 spring cocktails and also these 10 margarita recipes. Sometimes, though, you just need a simple sip that you can share with the kids, especially on long, hot summer days. That's when it's time to break out the water, sugar and lemons. And limes and oranges. Berries, watermelon and herbs, too. 

These 6 lemonade and other citrus-ade recipes will save you from the heat all summer long. That's right, mamas, ade the rescue. 

I'm pretty cautious when it comes to using lavender in cooking and baking since it can get way floral way fast. This Lavender Lemonade recipe (above) from Against All Grain, happens the perfect way to use the edible flower. It's a smart way to balance the sweet and tart of traditional lemonade. Plus, it gives this lovely color. So gorgeous!

 

Watermelon Lemonade is a go-to in my house. This recipe from Fearless Homemaker hits the spot. Give it a try, but be warned that you might never be able to go back to plain lemonade again.

I might love limeade even more than I love lemonade, and this Blueberry Limeade recipe from Portuguese Girl Cooks is calling my name. Jessica suggests adding sparkling water to serve or, if you're feeling frisky, vodka or tequila. All three, perhaps?

Cherry and lime are a classic flavor combo so it only makes sense to turn the two into a fresh summer drink. This cherry limeade recipe from Diet Taste skips the  maraschino cherries, and instead calls for fresh cherries. Use sweet or sour, even frozen will do, so there's no excuse to cheat.

 

Lemonade needs to be sweet, for sure, but sometimes it can be too much so. This Honey Lemonade with Grapefruit and Mint spied on A Tasty Love Story hits just the right note with a kiss of honey and touch of tart grapefruit. The addition of mint is perfection.

 

Lemonade and limeade get all the glory, but the perfect orangeade can be just as delicious, so long as you can get your hands on some fresh, juicy oranges. I love this recipe from Sunset Magazine. It's so easy and unexpectedly refreshing. Sunshine in a glass, right? -Stacie

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