Strawberry Lemonade

Forget the powdered stuff. This strawberry lemonade starts with a full quart of fresh berries blended into a bright pink puree, then stirred together with real lemon juice, sugar, and a splash of club soda for gentle fizz.

The club soda is what separates this from a standard strawberry lemonade. It adds a light sparkle that lifts the drink without turning it into a full soda. Pour it in last and stir gently so you don’t knock all the bubbles out.

Sweetness is adjustable here. Start with ¾ cup sugar and taste before adding more. Ripe, peak-season berries need less sugar. Early-season or tart berries might want the full cup. Stir until every grain dissolves so you don’t get gritty sips at the bottom.

Kitchen Tips

• Use ripe, fragrant strawberries. If they don’t smell like anything at the store, they won’t taste like much in your glass either.
• Strain the puree through a fine mesh sieve if you prefer a smooth drink. Leave it unstrained for more body and berry flavor.
• Chill everything first. Cold water, cold club soda, and cold fruit means you need less ice, which means less dilution.

Variations

• Frozen slushie: Blend everything with ice instead of serving over it for a frozen strawberry lemonade.
• Boozy version: Add vodka or white rum for a strawberry lemonade cocktail at your next backyard gathering.
• Herb twist: Muddle a few fresh mint or basil leaves into the pitcher before adding the club soda.