Nothing beats the refreshing zing of homemade Strawberry Lemonade, a vibrant blend of sweet strawberries and tangy lemons. In just 8 minutes, you can whip up this thirst-quenching drink that’s bursting with bright flavors and a silky-smooth texture. Each sip delivers a perfect balance of fruity sweetness and citrusy punch, making it an instant crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Packed with vitamin C and a hint of natural sweetness, this lemonade is as nourishing as it is delicious. The juicy strawberries lend a luscious, velvety finish, while the fresh lemon juice adds a crisp, invigorating edge. Serve it chilled in 8-ounce glasses, and watch it become the star of your summer gatherings or a delightful pick-me-up on a sunny afternoon.
Fresh Strawberry Lemonade Ingredients
- 6 cups (1.4 L) water, divided
- 1 cup (200 g) + 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup (236 ml) lemon juice (freshly squeezed, seeds removed)
- 1 ½ cups (210 g) ripe strawberries, quartered (plus extra for garnish, optional)
- Additional quartered strawberries and sliced lemons (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (236 ml) water and 1 cup (200 g) sugar. Heat over medium/low heat, stirring frequently, until the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Make the strawberry puree: In a blender, combine 1 ½ cups (210 g) quartered strawberries, ½ cup (120 ml) water, and 1 Tablespoon sugar. Blend until the strawberries are completely pureed.
- Strain the puree: Pour the strawberry puree through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher. Use a spatula to press and extract as much juice as possible. Discard the remaining pulp and seeds.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the lemon juice and the prepared simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir well to combine.
- Add remaining water: Pour in the remaining 4 ½ cups (1065 ml) water and stir thoroughly. For extra flavor and decoration, add additional quartered strawberries and sliced lemons to the pitcher if desired.
- Serve or chill: Pour the lemonade over ice and serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator. If chilled, give it a good stir before serving.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
This refreshing Strawberry Lemonade pairs beautifully with light summer dishes like grilled chicken salads, fresh fruit platters, or even a classic turkey sandwich. For a fun twist, serve it in mason jars with colorful paper straws for a picnic or backyard barbecue vibe.
Make It Your Own: Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Try adding a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy version, or swap strawberries for raspberries or blackberries for a different berry flavor. For an adult-friendly option, add a shot of vodka or gin to create a delightful cocktail.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Tips
Store your Strawberry Lemonade in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, as the strawberry puree may settle. If you’re making it ahead, wait to add ice until just before serving to avoid dilution.
Quick Tips for Success
Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor, and don’t skip straining the puree—it ensures a smooth, pulp-free lemonade. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought lemon juice, but fresh-squeezed will give you the brightest, most vibrant taste.
Equipment Essentials
You’ll need a blender for the strawberry puree, a fine mesh sieve for straining, and a large pitcher for mixing. A citrus juicer can also make extracting lemon juice quicker and easier. These tools will help you whip up this recipe in no time!
Strawberry Lemonade
Ingredients
- 6 cups water divided
- 1 cup granulated sugar divided
- 1 Tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup lemon juice seeds removed
- 1 ½ cups ripe strawberries quartered, plus additional for decoration if desired
- Additional quartered strawberries and sliced lemons for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare simple syrup first by combining 1 cup (236ml) water and 1 cup (200g) sugar in a small saucepan. Place over medium/low heat and stir frequently until sugar is dissolved. Set aside.
- Combine strawberries, ½ cup (120ml) of water, and 1 Tablespoon of granulated sugar in blender and blend until strawberries are completely pureed.
- Pour strawberry puree through a fine mesh sieve into pitcher and use a spatula to press/work as much strawberry juice through as possible. Discard remaining pulp/seeds.
- Add lemon juice and simple syrup to pitcher.
- Add remaining 4 ½ cups (1065ml) water and stir well. If desired add additional quartered strawberries and sliced lemons to pitcher for added flavor and decoration.
- Pour lemonade over ice and serve or chill and then stir again before serving.