I love how this strawberry lemonade instantly brings a fresh, summery feeling to the table. I get a perfect balance of sweet strawberries and bright lemon juice in every sip, and I always appreciate how simple it is to make with real fruit. Whenever I want a refreshing drink that feels homemade and special, I reach for this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it uses fresh, natural ingredients without any artificial mixes. I like how the strawberries give the drink a beautiful pink color and a fruity sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tart lemons. I also appreciate how flexible it is, since I can adjust the sweetness, make it sparkling, or prepare it ahead of time for gatherings. It’s a drink I feel good about serving to both kids and adults.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup granulated sugar, adjusted to taste
4 cups cold water, still or sparkling
Ice cubes, for serving
Lemon slices, for garnish
Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Directions
I start by rinsing and hulling the strawberries, then cutting them into halves or quarters. I place them in a blender with a small amount of water and blend until smooth. When I want a smoother drink, I strain the purée through a fine mesh sieve.
Next, I roll the lemons on the counter, cut them in half, and squeeze out the juice until I have about one cup. In a small saucepan, I gently heat the sugar with water, stirring until it dissolves completely, then I let the syrup cool.
I combine the strawberry purée, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a large pitcher. I add the remaining cold water, stir well, and taste to adjust the sweetness or tartness. I chill the lemonade for at least an hour before serving it over ice with lemon slices and fresh strawberries.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 6 to 8 servings from this recipe. The total time is around 20 minutes, including about 15 minutes of prep and 5 minutes to dissolve the sugar.
Variations
I like changing this recipe depending on my mood. Sometimes I add fresh mint for a cooling twist. Other times, I mix in sparkling water for a fizzy version. When I want something extra refreshing, I blend everything with ice for a frozen lemonade. For gatherings, I occasionally turn it into a mixed-berry lemonade by adding blueberries or raspberries.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover strawberry lemonade in a covered pitcher in the refrigerator for up to three days. I always give it a good stir before serving since the fruit can settle. I don’t reheat this drink, but I sometimes freeze the strawberry purée and lemon juice in ice cube trays for future batches.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
I can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones aren’t available. I usually thaw them first or blend them frozen for a thicker texture.
How can I reduce the sugar?
I often reduce the sugar by replacing part of it with honey or agave. I adjust it slowly and taste as I go.
Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?
I like making it ahead, especially for parties. I prepare it the day before and keep it chilled until serving.
Is sparkling water a good option?
I enjoy using sparkling water when I want a bubbly drink. I replace some or all of the still water with sparkling.
How do I keep the lemonade from being too tart?
I balance the flavor by adding a bit more simple syrup or water if the lemons are extra strong.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to this strawberry lemonade because it’s easy, refreshing, and full of real fruit flavor. It’s a recipe I trust for casual afternoons and special gatherings alike. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying and refreshing.
This Strawberry Lemonade is a fresh, homemade drink made with real strawberries, bright lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness. It’s a naturally pink, fruity refreshment that’s perfect for summer days, parties, or anytime you need a cool and vibrant drink.
Ingredients
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup granulated sugar, adjusted to taste
4 cups cold water, still or sparkling
Ice cubes, for serving
Lemon slices, for garnish
Fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions
Rinse, hull, and chop the strawberries. Blend with a small amount of water until smooth. For a smoother texture, strain through a fine mesh sieve.
Roll and juice lemons until you have 1 cup of lemon juice.
In a small saucepan, heat the sugar with 1 cup of water over medium heat, stirring until dissolved to make simple syrup. Let cool.
In a large pitcher, combine the strawberry purée, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir to mix well.
Add the remaining cold water. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
Chill the lemonade for at least 1 hour.
Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and strawberries if desired.
Notes
Use frozen strawberries if fresh are unavailable—thaw or blend frozen for a thicker texture.
Swap part of the sugar with honey or agave to reduce refined sugar.
Add fresh mint or blend with ice for a frozen version.
Store in the fridge up to 3 days and stir before serving.
Freeze strawberry purée and lemon juice in cubes for future use.
