Pin it
Whenever I want a cool treat that feels like sipping sunshine, I always whip up pineapple lemonade. It's tangy, super juicy, and tastes like you’re on a mini getaway. You don’t need a bunch of stuff either—just a few basics and you’re all set in minutes.
Now that I've realized just how simple it is, I keep pineapple around all summer. My crew won’t let me skip it at barbecues or lazy afternoons outside—we go through pitchers fast.
Effortless Ingredients
- Lemon juice: squeeze out one or two lemons for that punchy brightness Go for lemons that look shiny and feel weighty in your palm
- Optional natural sweetener: use a drizzle of honey or agave if you want it sweeter Start with a little and adjust to your taste
- Ice: fill up with about 240 milliliters or even more if you want super slushy vibes Clean, fresh-tasting ice makes all the difference
- Pineapple: peel, core, and chop up a ripe pineapple Fresh ones smell sweet at the top and feel firm when you give them a squeeze
Simple Steps
- Serve Up Right Away:
- As soon as it’s blended, pour the drink into frosty glasses. Add little slices of lemon or pineapple on top if you want.
- Try & Fix:
- Give your blend a sip. Feel free to add more sweetener—honey or agave works—if you think it needs a boost.
- Blend It Up:
- Pour your chopped pineapple, fresh lemon juice, and a good handful of ice cubes into the blender. Blast it on high till it’s super smooth and icy cold.
- Squeeze Lemons:
- Juice your lemons with a hand juicer. Try to keep those seeds out for a smoother sip.
- Get the Pineapple Ready:
- Chop off the outside and tough center so you’re left with just the sweet, juicy bits. This gets your drink extra smooth.
Pin it
What I really love is how pineapple is so sweet, I almost never reach for extra sugar. I served this drink during a sweltering graduation party—it disappeared in minutes because everyone needed seconds.
Easy Storage for Later
Pop any leftovers in a clean glass jar and stick it in the fridge. It's best enjoyed the day you make it, but it's still tasty if you drink it within a day. Shake or stir before you pour yourself another glass. If you want to prep, blend up everything but the ice early, then just add the ice when you’re ready to serve—keeps it extra frosty.
Swap Ideas
No fresh pineapple? Canned or frozen is fine—just let it drain first, so it doesn’t get watered down. Try lime juice if you want a twist instead of lemon. Or muddle a bit of mint with your fruit before blending for a fresh kick.
Serving Ideas
This one's great for outdoor hangs, backyard eats, or to serve as a fizzy punch without booze. Pop in a mint leaf or give the glass a sugar rim for more celebration. Tastes awesome solo or next to spicy food when you need something calming.
Pin it
Quick Background
Mixing pineapple and lemon brings together two classic favorites with lots of history. Lemons have cooled people off for ages, and pineapples send out a warm welcome. Putting both in your glass is a surefire way to make any spot feel tropical.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Totally! Canned pineapple works, but fresh pineapple bumps up the smack of flavor and natural sweetness.
- → What can I substitute for lemon juice?
Swap out the lemon juice for lime juice if you want a similar zingy lift in your drink.
- → How can I make the drink sweeter?
For more sweetness, splash in some honey or agave and blend everything together until it’s just right.
- → Is it possible to prepare this in advance?
You’ll get the best frosty texture if you blend it right before drinking, but chopping your fruit ahead helps you whip it up even faster.
- → Can I make this drink slushier?
Toss in extra ice cubes before blending to get that thick, slushie vibe.
- → What garnishes pair well with this drink?
Pineapple wedges or lemon slices make your glass look awesome and add a fresh burst.