When the weather warms up and you’re craving something cool, nothing hits the spot like a glass of fresh strawberry lemonade. This vibrant, sweet-tart drink is not only delicious but also incredibly refreshing, making it perfect for a sunny day or a backyard BBQ. The natural sweetness of ripe strawberries pairs beautifully with the tangy zing of fresh lemon juice, creating a beverage that’s both invigorating and satisfying.
Here’s a simple recipe to make your own homemade strawberry lemonade:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon slices (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Make the strawberry puree: In a blender or food processor, combine the sliced strawberries and a tablespoon of sugar. Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds (optional).
- Juice the lemons: While the strawberries are being pureed, squeeze the lemons to get 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Make sure to remove any seeds.
- Prepare the lemonade base: In a large pitcher, combine the strawberry puree, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and the remaining sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Add water: Pour in the cold water and mix thoroughly. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
- Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour the strawberry lemonade over the ice. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices if you like.
- Optional Sparkling Twist: For a fizzy version, swap out some or all of the water with sparkling water or soda water.
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Tips:
- For extra depth of flavor, you can also add a splash of orange juice or a few fresh basil leaves for an aromatic twist.
- If you want a smoother texture, skip the straining step and blend the strawberries directly into the lemonade.
- To make this drink ahead of time, simply store the strawberry lemonade in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving.
Enjoy your refreshing homemade strawberry lemonade on a hot day, and let the sweet and tart flavors brighten up your afternoon!
