Pickle lemonade is the tangy, salty-sweet summer drink that’s stirring curiosity and cooling people down across the U.S. In this guide, you’ll learn what it is, where it comes from, its unexpected health perks, and how to make it yourself. Whether you’re looking to stay hydrated or just want something bold and different, this might be your new go-to.
Table of Contents
Pickle Lemonade: A Refreshing, Healthy Twist on a Classic Drink
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Description
A bold and refreshing drink that combines fresh lemon juice with pickle brine for a tangy, hydrating summer treat.
Ingredients
1 cup cold water
½ cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tbsp pickle brine (from dill pickles)
1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Ice cubes
Fresh dill or cucumber slices (optional)
Instructions
1. Mix lemon juice, cold water, and pickle brine in a pitcher.
2. Stir in sweetener if using.
3. Fill glasses with ice.
4. Pour and garnish with dill or cucumber.
5. Serve cold.
Notes
Adjust pickle brine for more or less saltiness.
Use sparkling water for a fizzy version.
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 25
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
The Unexpected Story Behind Pickle Lemonade
I first tried pickle lemonade by accident—well, more like curiosity. I was ten, sitting on the front porch of our home in Vermont. My dad, fresh off a backyard barbecue, poured himself lemonade, then splashed in a bit of pickle brine. “Don’t knock it till you try it,” he said. So I did. And I couldn’t stop thinking about it.
Fast forward to Asheville, where I now spend my summer afternoons gardening or testing recipes in my kitchen. One sweaty day, I remembered that odd combo and decided to recreate it—fresh lemon juice, a spoonful of brine, and ice. One sip and the memory came rushing back. It was crisp, bold, and strangely perfect.
Pickle lemonade works because it hits multiple notes—tart from the lemons, salty from the brine, and just a hint of sweetness if you choose to add honey or maple. It hydrates better than sugary sodas or sports drinks, thanks to the natural electrolytes in pickle juice. Plus, it’s a low-calorie option when made at home.
This drink pairs especially well with fun recipes like my white chocolate raspberry coffee creamer, if you’re into mixing up flavors and trying something new.
With the rise of bold, functional beverages, it’s no surprise that pickle lemonade is getting the attention it deserves.
How to Make Pickle Lemonade at Home
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You don’t need anything fancy to make pickle lemonade. The key is balancing the tart lemon juice with just the right amount of salty brine. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cold water
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 2 tablespoons pickle brine (from dill pickles, not sweet)
- 1–2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh dill or cucumber slices for garnish (optional)
Optional variation: Add a splash of sparkling water or a pinch of pink Himalayan salt for an extra boost, just like in this pink salt trick recipe.
Quick Instructions
- In a large glass or pitcher, combine the lemon juice, water, and pickle brine.
- Stir in honey or maple syrup if you prefer a touch of sweetness.
- Fill glasses with ice, pour the mixture over, and garnish with dill or cucumber if desired.
- Taste and adjust brine or lemon as needed—some like it punchier!
This recipe serves 1–2 but can be doubled or tripled for cookouts or garden parties. Just be sure to chill it well—it tastes best ice-cold.
Health Perks of Drinking Pickle Lemonade
Drinking pickle lemonade regularly can be a smart way to stay refreshed while giving your body what it needs. This tart and salty drink delivers a dose of natural electrolytes that support hydration far better than water alone, especially on hot days or after physical activity.
The brine in pickle juice contains sodium, potassium, and trace minerals that replenish what’s lost through sweat. Meanwhile, fresh lemon juice adds vitamin C and acidity that helps digestion and supports immune health. When blended together, they create a crisp, revitalizing drink that feels both nostalgic and surprisingly functional.
Unlike sugary sodas or bottled energy drinks, pickle lemonade offers bold flavor without the crash. Add a touch of honey or maple syrup if you want to sweeten it naturally—this keeps the drink low in sugar while still satisfying. Served cold over ice, it’s a refreshing addition to your daily routine.
If you’re already exploring nutrient-packed dishes like my retinol carrot salad, this drink is another easy way to support wellness without sacrificing flavor. Keep a pitcher in your fridge during summer, and you’ll always have a go-to glass of something bold, hydrating, and healthy.
Pickle Lemonade and Uric Acid—What You Need to Know
When sipping on pickle lemonade, it’s helpful to understand how its ingredients affect your body beyond hydration—especially when it comes to uric acid levels. Pickles, particularly dill varieties used in brine, are low in purines, meaning they don’t directly raise uric acid. The same goes for lemon juice, which may even help reduce acidity in the body and support natural detoxification.
Some people believe vinegar-based foods increase uric acid, but that’s not supported by strong science. In fact, lemon juice is often included in home remedies for managing uric acid naturally. When balanced correctly, this drink can fit into a low-purine lifestyle and may even aid those watching their intake due to gout or joint concerns.
Because pickle lemonade contains no meat, seafood, or beer—the usual culprits for spiking uric acid—it’s considered a safe and light option. As always, moderation is key, especially for those monitoring sodium. But a well-mixed glass enjoyed with a healthy meal, like this protein pasta salad, can be both satisfying and supportive of your goals.
This vibrant drink doesn’t just cool you off—it works with your body, offering hydration, flavor, and function. If you’re aiming for a clean and balanced diet, it’s a worthy addition to your recipe list.
Creative Ways to Serve and Customize Pickle Lemonade
Once you’ve tried the classic version, pickle lemonade quickly becomes a base for endless ideas. Its punchy balance of salt and citrus makes it perfect for fun variations. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just want something new on your afternoon break, there are countless ways to serve it.
Add fresh herbs like dill, mint, or basil to infuse more complexity. A slice of jalapeño turns this into a spicy, bracing refresher. You can even blend it with sparkling water or club soda to create a fizzy twist that cuts through the vinegar edge.
For a cocktail-style version, mix it with a splash of gin or vodka and garnish with cucumber ribbons—just keep the balance right, so the flavor doesn’t overwhelm. Or, serve it in chilled mason jars with lemon wheels and crushed ice for a backyard picnic-ready drink.
In cooler months, serve it warm like a salty citrus tonic. It might sound unusual, but the warmth intensifies the brine and makes for a bold cold-fighter—especially when paired with a nutrient-rich meal like this killed lettuce salad.
When kept in a pitcher in the fridge, pickle lemonade becomes an easy grab-and-go option that stays flavorful for days. Try different pickles—garlic, spicy, or classic dill—to see how each changes the flavor profile. With so much room for experimentation, this simple drink earns its place in your kitchen all year long.
FAQs About Pickle Lemonade
What is pickle lemonade?
Pickle lemonade is a refreshing beverage made by combining fresh lemon juice with a small amount of pickle brine. It’s typically served cold and can be sweetened lightly or left tart. The drink delivers a bold mix of citrus and salt, making it a unique alternative to traditional lemon-based drinks.
Is pickle lemonade good for you?
Yes, it can be. Pickle lemonade provides electrolytes like sodium and potassium from the brine, which support hydration, especially after sweating or physical activity. The lemon juice adds vitamin C and digestive benefits, and when prepared without added sugars, it’s a light, functional drink.
Is it safe to drink pickle juice every day?
Drinking small amounts of pickle juice daily is safe for most people. However, those on low-sodium diets should watch their intake, as brine contains salt. When mixed with lemon and water, like in pickle lemonade, it becomes a more balanced option that can be enjoyed regularly in moderation.
Are pickles high in uric acid?
No, pickles are low in purines and do not raise uric acid levels. Since pickle lemonade includes only a small amount of brine, it’s generally safe for those monitoring uric acid, such as people with gout. Lemon juice may also help the body process and reduce uric acid naturally.
Conclusion About Pickle Lemonade
Pickle lemonade may sound unexpected, but it’s packed with flavor, function, and nostalgia. It hydrates better than most sugary drinks, offers a natural vitamin boost, and adds a savory twist to classic citrus. Whether you’re making a quick glass for yourself or serving it to guests, this drink delivers something bold, refreshing, and unforgettable. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and try something new in your kitchen, pickle lemonade is your next favorite sip.
