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This homemade strawberry lemonade is the perfect way to cool off on a warm day. Fresh, vibrant, and made with just a few simple ingredients, it comes together in under five minutes, making it an easy treat that tastes like summer in a glass.
I first made this on a hot afternoon with unexpected guests, and it was a hit instantly. Now it’s my go-to refreshment whenever friends drop by for a relaxed summer afternoon.
Ingredients
- Five cups cold water: split between mixing and dilution for balanced flavor
- Three quarters cup granulated sugar: for natural sweetness that you can swap for stevia if preferred
- Two cups fresh strawberries: for vibrant color and natural fruit flavor look for bright red, firm berries free of blemishes
- Two cups freshly squeezed lemon juice: for that zesty brightness make sure to use fresh lemons rather than bottled for best tang
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slicing the Strawberries:
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the stems. Cutting off the stems helps the blender puree evenly without tough bits.
- Mixing Sugar and Berries:
- In a large bowl combine two cups of cold water with the sugar and strawberries. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely which ensures all sweetness is evenly distributed.
- Blending to Smooth:
- Pour the mixture into a blender and pulse on high until the berries are completely smooth. This step brings out the fresh flavor and creates that lovely red color.
- Combining the Lemonade:
- Pour the blended strawberry puree into a pitcher, then add the remaining three cups of water plus the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir everything together well for a refreshing balance.
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I love how the strawberry’s natural sweetness blends with tart lemon juice in this recipe. One summer I made a big batch for my niece’s birthday party and she declared it her new favorite drink after one sip.
Storage Tips
Store leftover lemonade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir well before serving as natural separation occurs. For longer storage pour into ice cube trays and freeze the cubes for a quick refreshing addition to sparkling water or iced tea.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use honey or agave syrup instead of sugar for a different type of sweetness. You can swap strawberries for raspberries or blueberries to create your own fruity spin. For a lower sugar option try using a sugar alternative such as stevia or monk fruit.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled over ice with fresh lemon slices and whole strawberries as garnish. Add a few mint leaves for an herbal twist. This lemonade pairs beautifully with light salads, grilled chicken, or as a stand-alone summer refresher.
Cultural Context
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Lemonade is a classic American beverage dating back to the 19th century when it became popular as an affordable and refreshing treat. This homemade strawberry variation brings a modern twist with fresh fruit and natural ingredients keeping it vibrant and wholesome.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute sugar with a natural sweetener?
Yes, natural alternatives like stevia can be used to reduce sugar content while maintaining sweetness.
- → Is fresh lemon juice necessary for the best flavor?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice provides a vibrant, natural tartness that bottled juice often lacks.
- → How long can the drink be stored?
Keep the lemonade refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and taste.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries in this drink?
Frozen strawberries can work, but fresh ones ensure a brighter flavor and smoother texture.
- → What are good variations for this lemonade?
Try swapping strawberries with other berries or adding herbs like mint for unique flavor twists.