Dandelion lemonade recipe
This refreshing dandelion lemonade recipe is a floral twist on a classic summer drink. Packed with gentle detoxifying properties and a hint of wild sweetness, it’s a perfect way to celebrate the edible abundance of spring. Whether you're harvesting fresh dandelions from the garden or foraging in your backyard, this simple recipe turns a common weed into something truly special.
Ingredients
- 100 g fresh dandelion pedals
- 1 l water
- 150 g honey or maple syrup adjust to taste
- 180 ml lemon juice freshly squeezed
Instructions
Harvest & Prepare the Dandelions
- Pick fresh, pesticide-free dandelion flowers using a foraging bag to keep them clean.
- Remove the green base (sepals) and stems, keeping only the yellow petals to avoid bitterness.
- Shake off any bugs and rinse the petals in cold water, then let them air dry on a towel.
Make the Dandelion Infusion
- In a small pot, bring 2 cups (500 ml) of water to a gentle simmer.
- Add the dandelion petals and stir. Cover with a lid and remove from heat.
- Let the petals steep for 20–30 minutes to extract the delicate floral flavor.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth, squeezing out as much liquid as possible
Sweeten the Lemonade
- In a separate small saucepan, combine the remaining 2 cups (500 ml) of water with the maple syrup (or honey) over low heat.
- Stir until fully dissolved, creating a simple syrup. If using honey, do not overheat—just warm it enough to mix.
Mix Everything Together
- In a large pitcher, combine
- Stir well. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more lemon juice or sweetener if needed.
Chill & Serve
- Fill glasses with ice, then pour in the lemonade.
- Garnish with lemon slices, a few whole dandelion flowers, or a sprig of mint.
- Serve immediately, or chill in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.
Store & Enjoy Later
- Keep any leftover lemonade in a reusable glass bottle like this one to preserve freshness.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3 days, shaking before serving as natural ingredients may settle.