How to add lemon to cocktails and other drinks

Incorporating citrus slices into a drink can create an attractive garnish, but it’s not the most effective method for enhancing acidity. The optimal way to utilize lemon in a sweet beverage is by juicing it, whether manually or with a juicer. To easily extract the juice, try warming the sliced citrus in the microwave as a helpful tip.
You don’t need much juice to enhance a drink or to counterbalance sweetness. A good guideline for cocktails is to start with ¼ ounce of lemon juice. This is a solid baseline—if you’re looking to offset an overly sweet drink or desire more acidity, you’ll likely need to add extra. If you find yourself at a bar or restaurant with a drink that’s too sweet, there’s a simple solution. If the sweetness is manageable and you prefer not to return the drink, consider requesting a few lemon slices or a shot of lemon juice to mix in.
Can you use other citrus fruits besides lemon? Absolutely! Limes tend to have a sharper, more bitter taste, while oranges offer a distinct flavor in beverages but are less acidic. Grapefruits are also a great choice for adding acidity, featuring a beautifully colored juice that delivers a bitter yet floral taste.
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