How to Make the Perfect Classic Strawberry Lemonade
American · Easy · 15 min · 4 servings
This refreshing Classic Strawberry Lemonade blends sweet ripe strawberries with freshly squeezed lemon juice for the ultimate summer drink. Perfect for backyard parties, picnics, and warm weather gatherings, this homemade strawberry lemonade recipe is always a crowd-pleaser.
Why this recipe works
This Classic Strawberry Lemonade recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 15 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 120 calories with 1g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup water for simple syrup
- 3 cups cold water
- 2 cups ice cubes
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Make the Simple Syrup
Combine sugar and half cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until sugar fully dissolves, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely before using.
Step 2: Blend the Strawberries
Place hulled strawberries into a blender and puree until completely smooth. For a clearer lemonade, strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
Step 3: Mix the Lemonade
In a large pitcher, combine the strawberry puree, freshly squeezed lemon juice, cooled simple syrup, and cold water. Stir everything together until well combined and taste for sweetness.
Step 4: Serve Over Ice
Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the strawberry lemonade over the top. Garnish with a fresh strawberry slice and a lemon wheel on the rim for a beautiful presentation.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- granulated sugar → honey or agave nectar for a natural sweetener alternative
- fresh strawberries → frozen strawberries thawed work equally well when fresh are not available
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Adding simple syrup while it is still hot which can alter the flavor of fresh fruit
- Using bottled lemon juice instead of freshly squeezed which produces a flat and artificial taste
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 120 calories, 1g protein, 31g carbs, 0g fat, 1g fiber.
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