Description
A vibrant, naturally sweet and tangy summer drink made with juicy prickly pears and fresh lemons. Refreshing, antioxidant-rich, and perfect over ice or as popsicles.
Ingredients
4 medium-sized fresh prickly pear fruits (peeled)
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 5–6 lemons)
3 cups water (still or sparkling)
2–3 tablespoons maple syrup or agave (to taste)
Optional: fresh mint, lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
1. Cut and carefully peel the prickly pear fruit using tongs and a knife to avoid spines.
2. Blend the fruit until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the prickly pear juice and lemon juice.
4. Stir in water and maple syrup or agave, adjusting sweetness to taste.
5. Taste and tweak: add more water or lemon as desired.
6. Chill for 30 minutes or serve immediately over ice with garnish.
Notes
Substitute fresh prickly pears with prickly pear juice or syrup if unavailable.
For a sparkling mocktail, use sparkling water instead of still.
Freeze into popsicle molds for a fun twist.
Pairs wonderfully with summer dishes like grilled veggies or tofu tacos.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Southwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: prickly pear, lemonade, summer drink, vegan, gluten-free