Homemade & At the Table
Acqua e Limone
The short answer
Acqua e Limone is a simple tonic of warm water and fresh lemon juice, widely used in Italy as a digestive aid. A related drink, 'Il Canarino', uses only lemon zest instead of juice.
- Style
- Warm lemon water
- Glass
- Mug or heat-resistant glass
- Strength
- 0%
Where it comes from
This humble drink is a pillar of Italian folk wisdom. It has long been used as a morning tonic or a post-meal digestive aid in households across the country.
What you need
- 240 ml (1 cup) Hot water
- Juice of ½ Fresh lemon
- Optional: A strip of lemon zest
How Larry builds it
- 01
Heat the Water. Bring water to a simmer, but do not let it reach a rolling boil.
- 02
Prepare the Lemon. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a mug. Optionally, add a clean strip of yellow zest for more aroma.
- 03
Combine. Pour the hot water over the juice and zest. Let it sit for a minute to infuse.
- 04
Sip. Drink while warm, usually in the morning or after a meal.
Larry’s rule: Nonna's cure for everything. Larry has not asked what 'everything' includes.
Variations worth making
Il Canarino
Steep only the lemon peel (no juice) in hot water until the water turns bright yellow like a canary.
Acqua, Limone e Zenzero
Add a slice of fresh ginger to the hot water for added warmth and flavor.
Questions people ask
When should I drink this?
It is traditionally consumed in the morning on an empty stomach or after dinner to aid digestion.
Do I add sugar?
No, it is intended to be tart and functional; adding sugar is not traditional.
Should the water be boiling?
The water should be hot but not boiling. Excessively hot water can negatively affect the delicate flavor of the fresh lemon.
What are the benefits?
It is commonly used in Italy to aid digestion and provide a gentle start to the day.
What to eat with it
Pour it like Larry
The decanters, openers and glasses Larry keeps behind the bar.
Le Chateau Hand-Blown Crystal Wine Decanter with AeratorView on Amazon →
RBT Wine Decanter with Sediment Strainer & AeratorView on Amazon →
Chateau La Derive Swan Decanter Gift SetView on Amazon →
1800ml Lead-Free Crystal Wine Decanter SetView on Amazon →
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Order Acqua e Limone with sausage and peppers at the spots on Larry’s lists:
More from Homemade & At the Table
← All 159 Italian drinksQuoting or citing this drink? Credit “Uncle Larry Adventures” and link to https://unclelarryadventures.com/beverages/acqua-e-limone.