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Whenever I need something zippy that feels like a mini getaway, I make this pineapple lemonade. Bright lemons mixed with super-sweet pineapple make every gulp taste like sunshine. Plus, it's a snap to throw together—just grab a few easy-to-find things and you're set.
Once I realized how simple this was, I started stocking up on pineapple all summer. Anytime we're grilling or chilling outside, my whole crew begs for a cold pitcher of this stuff.
Tasty Ingredients
- Ice: Chuck in about 240 milliliters or toss in more if you like things extra chilly Fresh, clean ice makes it taste best
- Lemon juice: Squeeze one or two lemons for that lively punch Pick lemons that are heavy and look bright for max juice
- Pineapple: Take one ripe whole pineapple, peel it, cut out the core, then chop. It should feel solid and smell sweet at the bottom
- Optional sweetener: Like honey or agave, just to boost the sweetness Try a bit of mild honey and taste before adding more
Simple Steps
- Chop the Pineapple:
- Peel, core, and cut your pineapple into bits. Get rid of any hard parts, so only smooth, juicy pieces are left. That way, you'll get a creamy drink.
- Juice Your Lemons:
- Roll and squeeze your lemons using a hand juicer or just your hands. Catch any seeds so they don’t end up in your drink. Fresh juice tastes way better.
- Time to Blend:
- Toss the pineapple pieces, lemon juice, and ice into your blender. Hit high speed until the ice is smashed and everything’s liquid. Stop when it looks super cold and smooth.
- Sweeten if Needed:
- Sip a little. If you want it sweeter, blend in a drizzle of agave or honey. Taste again before adding more.
- Enjoy Right Away:
- Pour your frosty pineapple lemonade into cold glasses while it’s still icy. Top with pineapple or lemon slices if you feel fancy.
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What I love most is that pineapple is sweet enough that I barely ever add more sugar. One scorching day, I made a giant batch for a graduation party, and every last drop disappeared fast.
Storing Pineapple Lemonade
If you’ve got extra, pour it into a glass jar with a lid and stick it in the fridge. It’s best on day one but stays tasty for one day chilled. Just give it a quick shake or stir before serving again. Want to prep ahead? Blend just the lemon and pineapple first, then add ice when you’re ready to serve for max frostiness.
Swap Ideas
No fresh pineapple? Grab canned or frozen—just drain well so it’s not watery. Lime works in place of lemon if you want a fun twist. Fresh mint leaves muddled in add a cool herbal vibe, too.
Fun Ways to Serve
This drink is perfect for BBQs, picnics, and anytime you want a crowd-pleaser. Try adding mint sprigs or shaking a bit of sugar around the glass rim for style. It pairs awesome with spicy food or is great for sipping solo.
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A Quick Backstory
Pineapple lemonade combines two favorites people have loved for ages. Lemons have made super cool drinks forever, and pineapple always means 'welcome.' Mixing them makes it feel like a mini vacation, anywhere you are.
Recipe FAQs
- → Is fresh pineapple a must, or can I go for canned?
You can use canned pineapple if that’s what you’ve got, but fresh pineapple makes the flavor pop and keeps things naturally sweet.
- → Don’t have lemon juice—what works instead?
Go for lime juice if you want that same puckery citrus vibe. It swaps in easily for lemon here.
- → How do I make this drink a bit sweeter?
Toss a little honey or agave syrup into the blender with the rest, then blend and taste. Add more if you still want it sweeter.
- → Can I whip this up ahead of time?
You’ll get the best texture if you blend and serve right away, but you can always cut up the fruit early and just blend it when you’re ready to drink.
- → How do I make my drink more like a slushy?
Just throw in extra ice before you blend it until it’s as thick and icy as you want.
- → What’s good to dress this drink up?
Top it with a lemon wedge or a slice of pineapple—they look great and add a nice hint of extra flavor.