Description
Fresh Strawberry Lemonade is a delightful and refreshing drink perfect for warm days. Combining juicy strawberries, tart lemon juice, and a touch of sweetness, this homemade lemonade offers a vibrant flavor and a beautifully clear presentation thanks to careful straining. It’s easy to prepare, chilled to perfection, and ideal for serving over ice with optional garnishes for a delightful summer treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberry Puree
- 1 lb strawberries, washed and hulled
Syrup and Lemon Mixture
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups cold water (for syrup)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Final Lemonade Mixture
- 9 cups cold water, divided
- 1½ cups fresh lemon juice (about 10-12 lemons)
- ¼ teaspoon pure lemon extract
- ¼ teaspoon pure strawberry extract
Instructions
- Blend Strawberries: Add the washed and hulled strawberries into a blender and blend until you achieve a smooth puree.
- Combine Ingredients in Saucepan: Pour the strawberry puree into a large saucepan. Add 2 cups of cold water, granulated sugar, and lemon zest to the saucepan.
- Heat and Dissolve Sugar: Heat the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly, just until the sugar dissolves and the liquid reaches a light simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
- Simmer Gently: Continue to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to infuse the flavors.
- Cool Mixture: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Strain Mixture: Double strain the cooled mixture into the serving pitcher using a fine mesh straining bag or fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and solids, achieving a clear lemonade.
- Add Lemon Juice and Water: Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Then gradually add the remaining cold water (about 7 cups), stirring a cup at a time and tasting until the lemonade reaches your desired sweetness and tartness level.
- Add Extracts: Stir in the lemon extract and strawberry extract to boost flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the lemonade until it is super cold.
- Serve: Stir before serving, pour over ice, and garnish as desired with strawberry slices or lemon wedges.
Notes
- Using a fine mesh strainer or a straining bag ensures the lemonade is clear and smooth.
- Adjust the amount of water added to suit your sweetness preference and tartness.
- Fresh lemon juice is recommended for brightness and authentic flavor.
- This recipe yields about 10 servings and is perfect for summer gatherings.
- Garnish options include fresh mint, strawberry slices, or lemon wheels for visual appeal.
