This simple homemade ginger lemonade is so refreshing and delicious, and perfect for spring and summer! Made with only 3 easy ingredients in just a few minutes.

pitcher of ginger lemonade with serving in a glass

There are few things I enjoy more this time of year than soaking in the warmth of the sun and watching the trees and flowers bloom. Just a few weeks ago it was too cold to sit outside for long, and before I know it it will be too hot to sit out there midday. But for now it’s perfect.

And what better way to savor these moments than with a cool drink in hand? Lately, I’ve been craving lemonade, and this homemade ginger lemonade strikes the perfect balance—just the right mix of sweet, sour, and a gentle ginger kick that’s refreshing without being overpowering.

Why you should be sipping on this ginger lemonade

  • So much fresher and more delicious that what you could find in a store.
  • The recipe is simple, requiring just 3 ingredients and easy steps. 
  • It’s family-friendly, with no alcohol unless you choose to add it.
  • It’s perfect for spring and summer entertaining.
making ginger lemonade with ginger simple syrup

Ingredients you’ll need

  • Fresh ginger
  • Fresh lemons
  • Granulated sugar
  • Water and ice
  • Fresh mint, for serving (optional)

How to make this fresh ginger lemonade

  1. Make the ginger simple syrup: Boil sugar and water, then add sliced ginger and let it steep off the heat until cool.
  2. Chill: Pop the syrup in the fridge for 1-2 hours to get nice and cold.
  3. Mix the lemonade: Combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, cold water, and your chilled ginger syrup in a big pitcher.
  4. Add your finishing touches: Toss in ice cubes, lemon slices, and fresh mint if you like.
  5. Serve and enjoy: Pour yourself a glass and savor that refreshing flavors!
pitcher with ginger lemonade and garnishes on table

Variations & serving suggestions

  • Make it a cocktail: Add 1 oz of vodka, gin or whiskey to individual servings.
  • Make it with honey: Replace sugar with 1/2 cup honey.
  • Turn it into sparkling lemonade: Replace water in this recipe with chilled club soda/sparkling water.
  • Fun additions: Muddle in fresh strawberries or raspberries at the bottom of individual glasses, garnish with other herbs like basil or rosemary, or add slices of cucumber.

More spring and summer drinks

A pitcher and glass of refreshing ginger lemonade

Ginger Lemonade

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
A light and refreshing lemonade with a hint of ginger. This drink is family-friendly, but feel free to add bourbon or vodka to make it an adult beverage.
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Ingredients
 

For the ginger simple syrup:

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 medium piece of ginger root , thinly sliced

For the lemonade:

  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 4 cups cold water
  • Ginger simple syrup
  • Ice
  • Lemon slices , for garnish (optional)
  • Mint , for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

To make the simple syrup:

  • In a small saucepan set over medium high heat, bring the sugar and water to a boil. Add the ginger. Remove from heat and add sliced ginger. Cool to room temperature, then place in the fridge and chill completely for 1-2 hours. Strain to remove ginger slices.

To assemble the lemonade:

  • In a large pitcher combine the lemon juice, water and ginger simple syrup. Add ice cubes, lemon slices and mint. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Make it a cocktail: Add 1 oz of vodka, gin or whiskey to individual servings.
  • Make it with honey: Replace sugar with 1/2 cup honey.
  • Turn it into sparkling lemonade: Replace water in this recipe with chilled club soda/sparkling water.
  • Fun additions: Muddle in fresh strawberries or raspberries at the bottom of individual glasses, garnish with other herbs like basil or rosemary, or add slices of cucumber.
Calories: 80kcal, Carbohydrates: 21g, Protein: 1g, Fat: 1g, Saturated Fat: 1g, Sodium: 2mg, Potassium: 31mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 19g, Vitamin C: 12mg, Calcium: 2mg, Iron: 1mg
Cuisine: American, Fusion, Mediterranean
Course: beverage, party drink, refreshment
Author: Annalise Sandberg
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This recipe was originally published March 2015.