This lemonade combines the bright acidity of fresh lemons with the resinous aroma of rosemary. The syrup not only extracts sugar but also essential oils from the needles — giving the drink depth without weight. Perfect for hot days or as a base for sprightly long drinks. Simple, but with a twist you can taste before you can name it.
And this is what you need for the Rosemary-Lemonade
4 fresh lemons (approx. 120 ml juice)
2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (10–12 cm each)
100 g sugar (or 80 g for less sweetness)
1 litre still water
Optional: 1 pinch of sea salt (for minerality)
This is what matters
The trick lies in the timing: rosemary releases its aroma best when the syrup isn’t boiling but just hot enough to “open” the needles. Steeping for too long makes the drink soapy. Another trick is the pinch of salt — it rounds off the acidity without being detectable. If you want an even more aromatic result, you can lightly press the rosemary sprigs before steeping to bruise the cuttings. This allows more oils to escape into the syrup.
Variations
- Rosemary-Lemon Spritz — For a sprightly variation, mix 100 ml Prosecco or dry sparkling wine with 150 ml rosemary-lemonade and ice in a glass. Garnish with a lemon slice.
- Rosemary-Gin-Lemonade — Pour 4 cl London Dry Gin with 150 ml rosemary-lemonade and ice into a glass. Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a lemon zest. The gin emphasizes the resinous notes of the rosemary.
- Rosemary-Lemonade with Cucumber — Let 5 thin cucumber slices steep in the rosemary syrup in a pitcher for 10 minutes before adding the lemon juice and water. The cucumber adds a fresh, green note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried rosemary?
No. Dried rosemary loses the essential oils that define the drink. Fresh rosemary is essential — preferably with firm, green needles and an intense aroma.
How long does the lemonade keep?
Stored in the refrigerator, it keeps for 2–3 days, but loses freshness after 24 hours. The rosemary syrup alone keeps in the refrigerator for up to a week and is also suitable for other drinks.
Why does my lemonade taste bitter?
Rosemary becomes bitter if it steeps for too long or at too high a temperature. The syrup should steep for only 5 minutes on low heat and then cool immediately. If the drink is still bitter, a dash more lemon juice or a little honey can help.
Can I replace the sugar with honey?
Yes, but honey changes the flavour. Use 60 g honey instead of 100 g sugar and dissolve it in the warm (not boiling) syrup. Honey adds a floral note that harmonizes well with rosemary.
