Limonana is a thirst quenching slush drink with lemon and mint flavors. It’s easy to make and a favorite drink on a warm summer’s day. Trust me, it will be love at first sip.
This Middle Eastern mint lemonade is one of the most popular drinks of the summer months. No question why.
It’s a simple homemade lemonade with fresh mint plucked right from the herb garden (or grocery store), lots of ice.
It transforms quickly and easily into one of the most delicious of frosty summer beverages.
Like limeade, it’s a perfect drink for a hot climate or just to take the sting out of a sweltering day. The gorgeous green color is irresistible too.
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What is Limonana?
This refreshing drink is a mix of fresh mint leaves and fresh lemon juice into a sweet slushy drink perfect for a hot day.
This family favorite can be found in Northern America, Latin American, Europe and is very popular in Middle Eastern countries where it was originated.
The origins of Limonana (pronounced lee-mo-nah-nah) are interesting and demonstrate the power of advertising.
This frozen lemonade was featured in an Israeli bus advertising campaign showing celebrities drinking the refreshing cold drink….that actually was fictional at the time!
Following the campaign the public began asking for the drink and the Middle Eastern frozen mint lemonade was born.
The name limonana is a blend of Arabic and Hebrew words for lemon and mint.
Recipe Ingredients + Notes
There are many ways this drink can be made. Some recipes use simple syrup, lemonade concentrate or mint syrup.
We like to keep this classic favorite simple with fresh ingredients that create a perfect balance of flavors.
Fresh lemon juice. You’ll need 3/4 cup and it’s always best when squeezed fresh. This is the equivalent of about 4-5 lemons.
Microwave the lemons for 10 seconds before juicing for more juice extraction! We use a handheld juicer for this.
Bottled juice can be substituted in a pinch. Use 100% real lemon juice (not from concentrate) for the best results if substituting.
Granulated sugar. This adds just the right amount of sweetness to create a lovely freshness to the drink.
Fresh mint. You’ll need 1/2 cup packed fresh mint leaves. Leave the stems out.
Water. One cup water is used.
Ice. The ice cubes turns this lemonade into wonderful frozen slush.
Optional garnishes. Lemon slices and mint sprigs can be used for serving if desired.
How to make Limonana
Add ingredients to a blender: lemon juice, water, mint, sugar and ice (photos 1-3).
Blend until the ice is completely pulverized and the drink combined into a slushy consistency (photo 4-5).
Can I spike it?
Who are we to deny turning a gorgeous drink into a cocktail? Add 1 1/2 ounces of vodka, gin or bourbon.
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Recipe
Limonana – Frozen Mint Lemonade
Equipment
Ingredients
- ¾ cup lemon juice freshly squeezed (about 4-5 lemons)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup cold water
- 3 ½ cups ice cubes
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a blender: lemon juice, sugar, mint, water and ice. Pulse until everything is well incorporated with a slushy texture.
- Pour into 4 glasses and garnish with lemon slices or mint sprigs.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed juice for the best results.
- If needing to substitute bottled lemon juice use 100% real juice (not from concentrate).
Tamar says
Perfectly delicious and hits the spot. It’s such a good consistency and not too sweet
Linda says
Was so yummy!!!!