Beverages > Seasonal Drinks > Summer Drinks

Minty Lemonade Float Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups sparkling water
- 1/2 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1 pint vanilla ice cream

Special equipment needed:
- Blender
- Ice cream scoop
- Pitcher

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the lemon juice, sugar, and mint leaves. Blend until the sugar is dissolved and the mint leaves are finely chopped.
2. Pour the mixture into a pitcher and add the sparkling water. Stir to combine.
3. Chill the lemonade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. When ready to serve, scoop a generous amount of vanilla ice cream into a tall glass.
5. Pour the chilled lemonade over the ice cream until the glass is almost full.
6. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint leaves.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: None
Temperature:
Serve chilled
Serving size:
Makes 4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 57g
Protein: 4g
Sodium: 85mg
Sugar: 47g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different flavor.
- If you don't have fresh mint leaves, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of mint extract instead.

Variations:
- Add a splash of rum or vodka for an adult version of this drink.
- Use different flavors of ice cream, such as chocolate or strawberry.
- Add fresh berries or sliced fruit to the drink for added flavor and color.

Tips and tricks:
- To make the lemonade extra minty, muddle the mint leaves with the sugar before blending.
- For a creamier float, use half vanilla ice cream and half whipped cream.

Storage instructions:
Store any leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
None needed.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the Minty Lemonade Float in tall glasses with a sprig of fresh mint on top.

Garnishes:
Fresh mint leaves

Pairings:
This drink pairs well with grilled meats, salads, and sandwiches.

Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled vegetables
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lemonade is too tart, add more sugar to taste.
- If the ice cream melts too quickly, try freezing the glasses before serving.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean hands and surfaces when preparing this recipe.
- Keep the lemonade chilled until ready to serve to prevent bacteria growth.

Food history:
Lemonade has been a popular drink for centuries, with origins dating back to ancient Egypt. The addition of mint to lemonade is a more recent trend, but it adds a refreshing twist to the classic drink.

Flavor profiles:
This drink is sweet, tart, and minty.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the Minty Lemonade Float as a refreshing drink on a hot summer day.

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Taste: Refreshing, Tart, Minty, Sweet, Creamy