Refreshing Pineapple & Limeade Drink

Refreshing Pineapple & Limeade Drink

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings, depending on glass size.

Prep time: 15 minutes Chill time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended for best flavor)

Ingredients:

• For the Pineapple Juice:
  • 1 large ripe pineapple (about 3-4 lbs), peeled, cored, and cut into chunks
  • (Alternatively, 4-5 cups of high-quality, unsweetened pineapple juice)
• For the Limeade Base:
  • 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 8-10 medium limes)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
  • 1 cup hot water (to dissolve sugar)
• For Assembly:
  • 3-4 cups cold water (or sparkling water for a fizzy version)
  • Ice cubes
  • For Garnish:
    • Pineapple wedges or small pineapple triangles
    • Lime slices or wheels

Equipment:

• Blender (if making fresh pineapple juice)
• Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth
• Large pitcher or drink dispenser
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Citrus juicer
• Serving glasses

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pineapple Juice (if using fresh pineapple)

1. Peel and Core the Pineapple: Carefully cut off the top and bottom of the pineapple. Stand it upright and slice off the skin in downward strips, following the curve of the fruit. Remove any “eyes” with a paring knife. Cut the pineapple into quarters lengthwise and remove the tough fibrous core from each quarter.
2. Blend: Cut the pineapple flesh into smaller chunks. Place the chunks in a blender. Add about 1/2 cup of water to help the blending process, if needed. Blend until very smooth.
3. Strain: Pour the blended pineapple mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or a sieve lined with cheesecloth into a large bowl or pitcher. Press down on the solids with a spoon or spatula to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the pulp. You should have approximately 4-5 cups of fresh pineapple juice.

Step 2: Make the Simple Syrup for the Limeade Base

1. In a heatproof pitcher or bowl, combine the granulated sugar and hot water.
2. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. This creates a simple syrup, which ensures the sugar integrates smoothly into the cold drink. Let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Limeade Base

1. Juice the limes until you have 1 cup of fresh lime juice.
2. Add the fresh lime juice to the pitcher with the cooled simple syrup. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble the Drink

1. To the pitcher containing the limeade base, add the prepared pineapple juice (either fresh or store-bought).
2. Add 3-4 cups of cold water. Start with 3 cups and taste; add more if you prefer a less concentrated flavor.
3. Stir everything together thoroughly.
4. Taste and Adjust: At this point, taste the drink.
   • If it’s too tart, add a little more sugar (you might need to dissolve it in a tiny bit of hot water first if adding a significant amount).
   • If it’s too sweet, add more lime juice or a splash more cold water.
   • If the pineapple flavor isn’t strong enough, you can add more pineapple juice.

Step 5: Chill (Optional but Recommended)

1. For the best flavor, cover the pitcher and refrigerate the drink for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and chill thoroughly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Fill serving glasses with plenty of ice cubes.
2. Pour the pineapple and limeade drink over the ice.
3. Garnish each glass with a pineapple wedge or triangle and a fresh lime slice or wheel, as shown in the image.

Tips and Variations:

• Sparkling Version: For a fizzy drink, use cold sparkling water or club soda instead of still cold water in Step 4. Add it just before serving to maintain the carbonation.
• Herbal Twist: Add a few sprigs of fresh mint or basil to the pitcher while chilling for an added layer of flavor. Muddle them gently before adding.
• Ginger Kick: Add a few thin slices of fresh ginger to the simple syrup while it’s hot for a subtle spicy note. Strain them out before adding to the drink.
• Alcoholic Version: For an adult beverage, add a shot of white rum, vodka, or tequila to individual glasses.
• Sweetener Alternatives: You can substitute sugar with honey, agave nectar, or a sugar substitute to your liking. Adjust the amount based on their sweetness intensity.
• Make Ahead: The pineapple and limeade base (without ice and sparkling water) can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Enjoy your refreshing Pineapple & Limeade Drink!