While the classic lemonade will always hold a place in my heart, sometimes it can be a fun idea to play around with new flavors. With strawberries in season, a pint can go a long way into creating a rosy red strawberry lemonade. While the strawberries add sweetness, the fresh tart lemon juice works to balance it out. Garnished with strawberry slices and a sprig of mint, the combination creates a vibrant beverage that will help you beat the heat.
This lemonade has a few tricks up its sleeve. If you are having a get-together and want to serve something a little more festive, add a lemon-lime soda to create a fizzy, vibrant punch. Or, for the adults in the room, this would be wonderful spiked with a little tequila—it could definitely pass as a strawberry margarita.
Strawberry Lemonade Drink Recipe
Yields about 1 1/2 quarts 1 pint (16 ounces) strawberries, quartered 1/2 to 3/4 cup (100-150 grams) granulated sugar 4 cups (950 ml) water 1/2 cup (120 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (2-3 lemons) In a large skillet, place the quartered strawberries, sprinkle on 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and allow to sit for 5 minutes to begin releasing the juices. Add the 4 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the strawberries for about 20 minutes to release all of the flavor. Taste the juice; if it is not sweet enough, add a tablespoon of sugar at a time until it reaches your desired sweetness. Remove from heat and allow to cool until lukewarm. In a food processor or blender, process the strawberry mixture until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh strainer and discard the solids. Add the lemon juice and refrigerate until cold before serving. If the strawberry mixture is too thick, thin it with a bit of water—you won’t sacrifice the flavor. Garnish with strawberry slices and a sprig of mint.
*Originally posted 6/25/13
