Strawberry Lemonade

A refreshing blend of juicy strawberries, tart lemon juice, and sparkling fizz, this strawberry lemonade is the ultimate summer drink. Light, sweet, and slightly tangy, it’s perfect for backyard gatherings, picnics, or simply cooling off on a warm afternoon.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This drink combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with the bright acidity of lemons, balanced by simple syrup for smooth sweetness. Club soda adds a lively sparkle, making it both refreshing and fun to sip. It’s easy to make in big batches and can be adapted into a frozen treat or infused with fresh herbs for a twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups strawberries (about 1.5 lbs, stems removed, halved)
2 cups water
1¼ cups lemon juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor)
1 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar + water, dissolved)
3 cups club soda

Directions

1. Blend base: Add strawberries, water, lemon juice, and simple syrup to a blender. Blend until completely smooth.

2. Strain: Pour mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or pitcher to remove seeds and pulp.

3. Add fizz: Transfer to a large pitcher and stir in the club soda.

4. Serve: Pour over ice and enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Frozen version: Use frozen strawberries and blend with ice instead of adding club soda.

• Herbal twist: Muddle fresh mint or basil into the pitcher for extra freshness.

• Extra citrus: Swap club soda with sparkling lemonade for more tart punch.

• Reduced sugar: Use less simple syrup or replace with honey or agave nectar.

Storage/Reheating

Best served fresh for maximum fizz. If making ahead, prepare the strawberry-lemon base and store it (without club soda) in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add club soda just before serving.

FAQs

Can I skip straining the mixture?

Yes, but the texture will be thicker with more pulp and seeds.

Can I make it without club soda?

Yes, replace with still water or sparkling lemonade.

How do I make it sweeter?

Add more simple syrup to taste, or use sweeter strawberries.

Can I freeze the base?

Yes, freeze in ice cube trays, then blend with soda water or lemonade when ready to serve.

What’s the best type of strawberry to use?

Fresh, ripe strawberries are best for flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch.

How can I make it look fancy for guests?

Garnish with lemon slices, whole strawberries, and mint sprigs.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

Fresh is best for bright flavor, but bottled can be used if necessary.

How do I keep it cold for a party?

Serve over ice or freeze some of the strawberry-lemon base in cubes and add them to the pitcher.

Can I make it sugar-free?

Yes, replace simple syrup with a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.

Will the color fade over time?

It may darken slightly in the fridge, but will still taste fresh if consumed within 1–2 days.

Conclusion

Strawberry Lemonade is a vibrant, fruity drink that’s easy to prepare and endlessly refreshing. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful in the glass as it is delicious to drink.

Print