Cherry limeade is a delightful and refreshing beverage. The delicious drink combines the zesty tang of fresh limes with the sweet and tart notes of water bath canned tart cherry juice. For this recipe, you can either make your own tart cherry juice using fresh Montmorency cherries or opt for organic tart cherry juice readily available at local stores. This drink offers a beautifully balanced blend of sweet, sour, and tart flavors that makes it an ideal thirst-quencher, especially on warm days.
In Wisconsin, we are fortunate to have access to delicious tart cherries, especially those grown in the picturesque Door County. The tart cherry juice used in this particular recipe was prepared with these freshly picked cherries, providing an authentic taste of the region. Preparing this cherry limeade is remarkably quick and easy, taking less than ten minutes from start to finish. The recipe yields an impressive 3 quarts of this refreshing drink. One pitcher can easily serve up to 12 people. Once made, the cherry limeade can be stored in a glass pitcher in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to three weeks refrigerated, making it a great option for entertaining or simply enjoying at home.
Health Benefits of Cherry Limeade
Both tart cherries and limes boast impressive nutritional profiles, contributing to the many health benefits of this refreshing drink. Tart cherries are particularly rich in dietary fiber. Fiber plays a crucial role in promoting digestive health. Notably, they contain high levels of vitamin A. Vitamin A is a vital fat-soluble vitamin that supports eye health and is essential for maintaining good vision. Tart cherry juice is often praised for its numerous health advantages. It is packed with antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate discomfort associated with conditions such as gout and arthritis. Research has indicated that tart cherry juice may even play a role in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, making it a powerful addition to a healthy diet.10 Health Benefits of Tart Cherry Juice
Limes, on the other hand, are known for their vibrant, mouth-puckering flavor and are rich in vitamin C. This essential nutrient is vital for enhancing immune function. The vitamin C in limes also combats inflammation in the body and improving the absorption of iron. Additionally, consuming limes may help to prevent kidney stones. The citric acid found in citrus fruits, such as limes, works to break down stone-forming minerals. Citric acid reduces the risk of kidney stone formation.
In summary, cherry limeade is not only a deliciously tart and sweet beverage but also a nutritious option. It offers various health benefits, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking a refreshing and health-conscious drink.
Limes: Nutrition, Benefits, Uses, and Side Effects
See also for a refreshing healthy drink Homemade Lemonade
Cherry Limeade
Equipment
- Saucepan
- lime juicer
- 3 quart pitcher
Ingredients
- 1 cup Sugar + 1 cup Water
- 1 pint Tart cherry juice
- 2 Fresh squeezed limes
- 7 cups water
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, boil 1 cup sugar in 1 cup water to create a simple syrup. It is ready when all the sugar is dissolved and boiling for about 1 minute. Turn off the heat and set aside to cool for 5 minutes.
- Pour cherry juice into a pitcher.
- Using a lime juicer, add the lime juice to the pitcher.
- Add water and simple syrup to the pitcher and stir.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes and serve over ice.
Nutrition
