Forget the store-bought mixes! This homemade strawberry lemonade is the ultimate summer refresher.
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water (for syrup)
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled
1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice (approx. 6 lemons)
6 cups cold water
Ice, lemon slices, and extra berries for garnish
Syrup: In a saucepan, combine sugar, 1 cup water, and strawberries. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
Blend: Carefully blend the strawberry mixture until smooth.
Strain: Pour the blended syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a large pitcher. Discard pulp.
Mix: Add lemon juice and 6 cups of cold water to the pitcher. Stir well.
Serve: Pour over ice and garnish with fresh fruit.
The “Crystal-Free” Secret: Always make the simple syrup first. Never stir raw sugar into cold water, or you’ll end up with a grainy drink. The heat ensures the sugar fully dissolves for a silky-smooth texture.
Clearer Lemonade: For a crystal-clear look, don’t press the strawberry pulp through the strainer with a spoon; just let the juice gravity-drip through. If you want more fiber and a thicker drink, feel free to press away!
Fizzy Twist: Want some bubbles? Replace the 6 cups of cold water with sparkling water or club soda just before serving for a refreshing strawberry lemonade spritz.
Herb Infusion: For a sophisticated “adult” twist, add 2–3 sprigs of fresh basil or mint to the saucepan while the strawberry syrup is simmering. It adds an incredible herbal depth.
Storage Savvy: This lemonade can be made up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, the flavors often meld and improve after a few hours in the fridge!
Find it online: https://www.endrecipes.com/homemade-strawberry-lemonade/