Nitrate & Nitrite Free Vegan Cherry Limeade with Lime Zest and Ice
Bright, tangy, and deeply refreshing, this cherry limeade is the kind of drink that makes you feel like summer arrived early. Fresh lime juice and lime zest bring a citrusy punch, while tart cherry juice adds a gorgeous ruby color and a fruity depth that bottled mixes simply can't match. The agave-based simple syrup keeps everything naturally sweetened without any of the processed additives or preservatives you'd find lurking in store-bought versions. For anyone keeping a close eye on nitrates and nitrites — which can sneak into flavored drinks and packaged juice blends — making this from scratch with whole, clean ingredients is the smartest move. Sparkling water gives it that satisfying fizz, and the whole thing comes together in one pitcher with barely any effort. It's a crowd-pleasing, plant-based sipper that looks stunning in the glass and tastes even better than it looks.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the simple syrup
- ½ cup agave syrup
- ½ cup water
For the limeade
- ¾ cup fresh lime juice (from about 6 limes)
- 1 tbsp lime zest (from about 2 limes)
- 1 cup tart cherry juice
- 2 cups sparkling water
For serving
- 2 cups ice
- 4 lime slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the agave syrup and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the agave is fully dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 15 minutes until no longer warm to the touch.
- 2
Zest 2 limes directly into the cooled syrup and stir to combine, then juice enough limes to yield 3/4 cup fresh lime juice.
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