A Staple Recipe from My Dad, Dr. Joel Fuhrman
Lemonade is a summer staple in our house—though let’s be honest, we drink it year-round. But not the super-sugary kind you'd find at a fair. My dad, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, has always been big on creating nutrient-rich versions of classic favorites, and this naturally sweetened lemonade is one of his go-to recipes.
I remember the first time he made it, we all thought it was way to thick to be called "lemonade" so we called it lemon slush! No matter what you want to call it, it’s tangy, refreshing, and blended with whole-food ingredients that make every sip feel good.
You're going to love it—and so will everyone you share it with!
Ingredients:
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1.5 cups fresh lemon juice (about 6–8 lemons)
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1.5 cups cold water
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1.5 cups ice
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12 Medjool dates, pitted
A Note on Measurements:
You don’t need to measure perfectly—this is just the ratio we’ve found works best:
4 dates per ½ cup of lemon juice
You can always adjust based on your taste or how much you’re making.
Switch it up:
We also love adding in freshly squeezed orange juice. Try using half lemon juice and half orange juice for a slightly sweeter, more balanced citrus blend. If you go this route, reduce the number of dates—just blend and taste until it’s just right.
Directions:
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Add the lemon juice, water, and pitted dates to a high-speed blender. Blend until the dates are fully broken down, then add the ice and blend again until smooth and frosty.
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Taste and adjust as needed—more lemon for zing, more dates for sweetness.
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Serve over ice and enjoy, or chill in the fridge and give it a shake before serving.
Why We Love It:
This lemonade is everything I love about the way I grew up eating—simple, whole
ingredients that leave you feeling energized and satisfied. The Medjool dates add natural sweetness without any refined sugar, and the citrus keeps it light and fresh. Perfect for summer hangouts, family meals, or just sipping solo in the sun.
Give it a try and tag me if you do—I’d love to see how
you're enjoying this Fuhrman family favorite.
XOXO,
Dr. Cara Fuhrman