Cilantro Lemonade (sugar-free)

Today marks the day that I changed my mind about automatic citrus juicers being unromantic and cluttery. In case any of you are keeping tabs.

Pretty much a minimalist in the kitchen (a vitamix instead of the typical trio of so-so blender + huge food processor + countertop juicer), I won’t buy or keep any gadget around that doesn’t do at least 3 tasks efficiently.

But today. I take it back. Because the auto citrus juicer is a beautiful thing. At least when you’re a healthy summer bevvy junkie/margarita lover like myself.

Don’t laugh at my slash. No matter the time of day or occasion, I want good ingredients and the least amount of sugar crash. It’s always worth it.

So, today. This one. For a summer drink flavorful enough you might not ever need to buy the pre-bottled stuff again.

Cilantro Lemonade

Makes 4 servings

3/4 bunch cilantro leaves

6 ripe lemons

1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

Directions:

Juice lemons and discard seeds. Add lemon juice, cilantro and maple syrup to the blender and puree on high for 30 seconds. Add more maple syrup if desired, depending on your palate.

Strain out pulp and pour into a glass jar.

To serve, pour over ice and sparkling water, and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.

Also, no one would complain if you turned this into a vodka, tequila or gin cocktail either.

This recipe is also amazing with juiced jalepeno, tarragon and basil.