strawberry lemonade recipe

Quench your thirst with this delightful homemade strawberry lemonade, a perfect blend of sweet strawberries and tangy lemons.

This refreshing beverage combines the bright, citrusy kick of fresh lemons with the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries, creating a beautiful pink drink that’s perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or any time you need a cooling refreshment.

Ingredients List

For the Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate

• 340g fresh strawberries (hulled and cut into ½-inch pieces)
• 200g granulated sugar
• 5-6 medium lemons (for zest and juice)
• 350ml cold water

For Serving

• 5 cups cold still or sparkling water
• Extra water for adjusting taste
• Lemon slices (optional garnish)
• Strawberry slices (optional garnish)
• Ice cubes

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing this refreshing strawberry lemonade, having the right kitchen tools will ensure a smooth preparation process:

1. Large Nonreactive Mixing Bowl: For macerating strawberries
2. Citrus Zester: To zest the lemons
3. Citrus Juicer: For extracting fresh lemon juice
4. Fine-Mesh Strainer: To strain the concentrate
5. Large Pitcher: For serving
6. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements
7. Silicone Spatula: For stirring and mixing
8. Cutting Board and Knife: For preparing fruits

Preparation of Strawberry-Lemon Base

Creating the perfect strawberry lemonade starts with properly preparing the fruit base. This crucial step ensures maximum flavor extraction from both strawberries and lemons.

Preparing the Strawberries

1. Wash and Hull:
   • Thoroughly wash the strawberries
   • Remove the green tops and any white parts
   • Cut into uniform ½-inch pieces for even maceration
2. Maceration Process:
   • Combine cut strawberries with granulated sugar
   • Add fresh lemon zest
   • Toss ingredients together in the nonreactive bowl
   • Let mixture rest in refrigerator for 1 hour
   • Stir every 30 minutes with silicone spatula

Lemon Preparation

1. Zesting the Lemons:
   • Before cutting lemons, zest them carefully
   • Avoid the white pith which can add bitterness
   • Set aside zest to use in maceration
2. Juicing Process:
   • Cut zested lemons in half
   • Extract juice using citrus juicer
   • Strain to remove seeds and pulp
   • Should yield approximately 1 cup of juice
   • Store juice in airtight container in refrigerator

Creating the Concentrate

The concentrate is the heart of your strawberry lemonade, providing intense flavor that can be diluted to taste.

1. Combining Ingredients:
   • After maceration, add ¾ cup lemon juice to strawberry mixture
   • Pour in 1½ cups cold water
   • Stir thoroughly to combine
2. Final Steps:
   • Refrigerate mixture for additional 30 minutes
   • Strain through fine-mesh strainer
   • Should yield about 2½ cups of concentrate
   • Store in glass or ceramic container

Mixing and Serving Instructions

Transform your concentrate into the perfect glass of strawberry lemonade by following these detailed steps for mixing and serving.

Basic Mixing Ratio

1. Standard Dilution:
   • Pour concentrate into large pitcher
   • Add 5 cups cold water
   • Stir gently but thoroughly
   • Taste and adjust concentration if needed
2. Customization Options:
   • For stronger flavor: use less water
   • For lighter taste: add more water
   • For extra tang: add remaining ¼ cup lemon juice
   • For sparkle: substitute sparkling water

Serving Suggestions

1. Individual Servings:
   • Fill glasses with ice cubes
   • Pour prepared lemonade over ice
   • Add garnishes if desired
   • Serve immediately
2. Presentation Tips:
   • Use clear glasses to showcase the pink color
   • Arrange lemon slices on glass rims
   • Float fresh strawberry slices in drinks
   • Add mint leaves for extra visual appeal

Creative Variations

Customize your strawberry lemonade with these exciting variations:

1. Herb-Infused:
   • Add fresh mint leaves
   • Try basil for a sophisticated twist
   • Experiment with lavender
   • Consider rosemary sprigs
2. Frozen Options:
   • Blend with ice for a slushy texture
   • Make ice cubes from the concentrate
   • Create a granita-style dessert
   • Freeze into popsicles

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Storing the Concentrate

1. Short-Term Storage:
   • Keep concentrate refrigerated
   • Store in airtight glass container
   • Use within 5-7 days
   • Shake well before each use
2. Freezing Options:
   • Freeze concentrate in ice cube trays
   • Transfer frozen cubes to freezer bags
   • Store up to 3 months
   • Thaw as needed for future use

Mixed Lemonade Storage

• Store mixed lemonade in refrigerator
• Best consumed within 2-3 days
• Stir or shake before serving
• Keep garnishes separate until serving

Troubleshooting Tips

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Too Sweet:
   • Add more fresh lemon juice
   • Increase water ratio
   • Add a pinch of salt to balance
2. Too Tart:
   • Add simple syrup
   • Include more macerated strawberries
   • Reduce lemon juice
3. Color Issues:
   • Use ripe, bright red strawberries
   • Avoid overstraining
   • Minimize exposure to direct sunlight

Conclusion

This homemade strawberry lemonade recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, creating a refreshing drink that’s far superior to store-bought versions.

The concentrate method allows for easy customization and storage, making it perfect for both impromptu refreshments and planned gatherings.

Remember, the key to perfect strawberry lemonade lies in using fresh, quality ingredients and adjusting the ratios to suit your taste preferences.