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A vibrant, ruby-red lemonade with the unique, sweet flavor of desert prickly pears. This refreshing Southwestern classic is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day, balancing fruity notes of watermelon and bubblegum with a zesty citrus kick.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Prickly Pears
Create the Prickly Pear Syrup
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A vibrant, ruby-red lemonade with the unique, sweet flavor of desert prickly pears. This refreshing Southwestern classic is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day, balancing fruity notes of watermelon and bubblegum with a zesty citrus kick.
This southwest recipe takes 35 minutes to prepare and yields 4 servings. At 299.56 calories per serving with 1.9g of protein, it's a beginner-friendly recipe perfect for beverage or snack.
Mix the Lemonade
Serve and Garnish
Substitute the 4 cups of still water with chilled club soda or sparkling water. Add it to the pitcher just before serving to maintain carbonation.
Add 1.5 ounces of silver tequila or vodka to each glass for a refreshing adult cocktail.
Replace the granulated sugar with 3/4 cup of agave nectar for a different flavor profile. Adjust to taste.
Add a few sprigs of rosemary or basil to the syrup while it simmers to infuse an herbaceous note into the lemonade.
Prickly pears are packed with antioxidants, such as betalains, which give the fruit its vibrant red color. These compounds help fight oxidative stress in the body.
Both lemon juice and prickly pear are great sources of Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
With a high water content from the fruit, lemon juice, and added water, this lemonade is a delicious and refreshing way to stay hydrated on a hot day.
Each 1.5-cup serving contains approximately 255 calories, primarily from the natural sugars in the fruit and the added granulated sugar.
It can be a healthier alternative to commercial sodas as it's made with real fruit juice. Prickly pears and lemons are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. However, it does contain a significant amount of added sugar, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.
The most important step is to wear thick, protective gloves (like leather or heavy-duty rubber gloves) to avoid contact with the tiny, hair-like spines called glochids. Use tongs to hold the fruit while you cut and peel it.
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is highly recommended for the best, brightest flavor. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but it may have a slightly different, more muted taste.
The homemade prickly pear syrup can be stored in an airtight container, like a glass jar, in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. You can make it in advance for quick lemonade preparation.
The flavor of prickly pear is often described as a cross between watermelon, strawberry, and classic bubblegum. It's sweet, fruity, and very unique.