What makes Ina Garten's lemonade recipe different from regular lemonade?

The blender technique. Instead of making a separate simple syrup or stirring, Ina blends lemon juice, superfine sugar, crushed ice, and water together in one step. The blending dissolves the sugar instantly and super-chills the lemonade at the same time — no waiting, no extra steps.

Can I use regular sugar instead of superfine?

Yes, but you risk grainy lemonade if the crystals do not fully dissolve. To fix this, make superfine sugar at home by pulsing regular granulated sugar in a food processor for 30 seconds. Alternatively, blend the lemonade for 60 seconds instead of 30.

How many lemons do I need for 1 cup of lemon juice?

Approximately 5 to 6 medium lemons. Juice yield varies by lemon size and ripeness. Rolling the lemons firmly on the counter before juicing helps maximize the juice from each lemon.

How long does homemade lemonade last?

Ina Garten's lemonade keeps refrigerated for up to 24 hours. After that, the fresh lemon juice begins to oxidize and the flavor flattens. Stir or briefly re-blend before serving if it has separated.

Can I make this without a blender?

Yes, but you will need to make a simple syrup first. Combine the sugar with 1/2 cup of water in a small saucepan, heat until the sugar fully dissolves, then cool completely. Add the cooled syrup to the lemon juice and water. The result is good but the blender version is faster.

Is this recipe the same as store-bought lemonade?

No comparison. Commercial lemonade uses concentrated lemon juice, high-fructose corn syrup, and preservatives. Ina Garten's fresh lemonade uses only fresh squeezed juice, superfine sugar, ice, and water — four clean ingredients, ready in 5 minutes, for a fraction of the cost.

Can I make a large batch for a party?

Yes. The recipe scales perfectly. For 12 servings, use 2 cups lemon juice, 1 to 1.5 cups superfine sugar, 2 cups crushed ice, and 8 cups water. Blend in two batches. Keep refrigerated until serving and stir before pouring.

Ina Garten Lemonade Recipe — 4 Ingredients, 5 Min

Description

The Ina Garten lemonade recipe is bright, refreshing, and incredibly simple, made with just four ingredients using a quick blender technique.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (5 to 6 lemons)
1/2 to 3/4 cup superfine sugar
1 cup crushed ice
4 cups cold water

Instructions

Roll lemons firmly on the counter to release more juice.
Cut lemons in half and juice them, then strain out seeds and pulp.
Measure exactly 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.
Add lemon juice, superfine sugar, crushed ice, and cold water to a blender.
Blend on high for 30 seconds until smooth and sugar is dissolved.
Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if needed, then blend briefly again.
Pour into a pitcher over fresh ice.
Add lemon slices for garnish.
Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 24 hours and stir before serving.

Notes

Use only fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Superfine sugar ensures smooth texture and quick dissolving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Drink
Method: Blended
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 120
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 5mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Ina Garten lemonade recipe, lemonade, fresh lemonade, summer drink, easy drink