This lemonade brings summer to the table: sweet berries, spicy ginger and sparkling water. Not a mixed drink, but a non-alcoholic thirst quencher that impresses with its combination of fruit and spice. The ginger slices aren’t just pureed; they remain as aromatic pieces in the glass – so the aroma unfolds in waves. Perfect for hot days or as a base for a quick cocktail variation with Gin or Rum.
And here’s what you need for the Ginger Berry Lemonade
2 cups fresh berries (e.g., strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
1 piece of ginger (approx. 5 cm)
4 limes
4 tbsp honey (or agave syrup for vegan option)
1 litre sparkling water
Ice cubes for serving
Here’s what matters
The trick lies in the ginger slices: they aren’t just pureed; they remain whole pieces in the glass. This way, the spiciness unfolds in waves – first gently, then more intense. If you prefer it milder, you can blanch the ginger briefly in hot water beforehand to reduce the spiciness. Important: Don’t strain the puree through a sieve, otherwise the fruity pieces that are crucial for the texture will be lost.
Variations
- Ginger Berry Spritz — For an alcoholic variation, mix 4 cl London Dry Gin or white Rum into the berry puree before adding the sparkling water. Top up with a splash of soda water and garnish with mint leaves.
- Frozen Ginger Berry Lemonade — Blend the berry puree with some ice in a blender to make a slushie. Top up with sparkling water and serve immediately – perfect for hot days.
Frequently asked questions
Can I replace the honey with sugar?
Yes, but honey gives the lemonade a rounder sweetness and blends better with the ginger aroma. If sugar is used, it’s best added as a sugar syrup (dissolved 1:1 with water) to ensure even distribution.
How long does the lemonade keep in the fridge?
Freshly prepared, it tastes best as the carbonation dissipates quickly. In the fridge, it keeps for about 12 hours; after that, it goes flat and loses freshness. However, the puree can be prepared in advance and only topped up with water shortly before serving.
Which berries work best?
Raspberries and strawberries provide an intense sweetness, while blueberries have a slightly more tart flavour. For a more acidic taste, you can mix in a handful of currants or gooseberries. Important: The berries should be ripe, otherwise the lemonade will taste too tart.
