This matcha lemonade recipe is a bright, energizing blend of earthy green tea and tart lemon—your new favorite afternoon pick-me-up. It’s refreshing, slightly caffeinated, and oh-so Instagram-worthy.
Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 2 ounces hot water (not boiling)
– 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
– 6 ounces cold lemonade
– Ice cubes
– Lemon slice for garnish
Instructions
Step 1
Start by whisking together the matcha powder and hot water in a small bowl until smooth and frothy. A bamboo whisk works wonders here, but a small regular whisk will do if you don’t have one.
Step 2
Add honey or agave syrup to the matcha mixture and stir until completely dissolved. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Step 3
Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, then pour in the cold lemonade, leaving some room at the top for the matcha layer.
Step 4
Slowly pour the sweetened matcha over the back of a spoon onto the lemonade to create that lovely layered effect.
Step 5
Garnish with a slice of lemon on the rim of the glass for an extra touch of flair. Sip and enjoy!
Ways to Improve It
1. Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for an even fresher flavor.
2. Add a splash of sparkling water for some fizz.
3. Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar.
4. Enhance the flavor with fresh mint leaves muddled in your lemonade.
5. For a creamier texture, add a splash of coconut milk.
What to Serve With It
This iced matcha lemonade pairs beautifully with light salads, such as arugula with goat cheese and strawberries, or cucumber sandwiches for an afternoon tea vibe. It’s also delightful alongside almond biscotti or lemon shortbread cookies for a sweet treat.
Substitutions
– Replace honey/agave syrup with stevia for a low-calorie option.
– Swap lemonade with limeade for a different citrus twist.
– Substitute matcha powder with green tea powder if you’re out of matcha.
– Use decaffeinated green tea powder if you want a caffeine-free version.
Recipe Variations
1. Add fresh ginger slices to the hot water before mixing with matcha for a spicy kick.
2. Blend in some frozen raspberries with the lemonade for a fruity variation.
3. Mix in a bit of vanilla extract for added depth and warmth.
4. Create an iced matcha peach lemonade by using peach-flavored lemonade instead.
5. Infuse lavender into your lemonade for an aromatic touch that pairs wonderfully with matcha’s earthiness.
