Strawberry Lemonade Spring Refresher

Name: Strawberry Lemonade Spring Refresher
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste); 4 cups cold water; Ice cubes; Mint leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Recipes

I love a refreshing drink that captures the essence of spring, and this Strawberry Lemonade Spring Refresher does just that! With the perfect balance of sweet strawberries and zesty lemon, it's like sipping on sunshine. This drink is not only delicious, but it’s also super easy to whip up for a gathering or just a sunny day on the patio. I always make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you for it!

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:21:35.881Z

Creating this Strawberry Lemonade Spring Refresher was an inspiring experience for me. I wanted to recreate the vibrant flavors of spring, and after playing with ratios, I found that a 2:1 blend of strawberries to lemon juice creates the perfect flavor explosion. The addition of fresh mint for garnish not only looks beautiful but also adds a refreshing aroma that complements the drink beautifully.

When I serve this drink, I always advise adding ice just before serving to keep the drink cold without watering it down too much. You can also experiment by adding a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy twist that elevates the refreshment factor even further. Trust me, this drink will become your go-to as the days get warmer!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and vibrant flavors that scream spring
Refreshing balance of sweetness and tanginess
Perfectly simple and quick to prepare

Choosing the Best Strawberries

To make the best Strawberry Lemonade Spring Refresher, selecting ripe and fresh strawberries is key. Look for berries that are vibrant red, firm to the touch, and sweet-smelling. Avoid those that have white or green spots, as these are not fully ripe. If you can't find fresh strawberries, frozen ones can work in a pinch, but make sure to thaw and drain them beforehand to avoid excess moisture in your lemonade.

Once you've got your strawberries, it's important to hulled and slice them accurately. The green tops should be removed gently, and it's best to slice them into evenly-sized pieces to ensure a smooth blend. The goal is to create a silky puree, so smaller, uniform pieces will help achieve that consistency more quickly.

Perfecting Your Lemonade Balance

The balance of sweetness and tanginess in your lemonade is crucial. Start with the recommended 1/2 cup of sugar for your initial mix, but taste as you go. Depending on the tartness of your lemons and sweetness of your strawberries, you may find you want to adjust this to suit your personal palate. A good rule of thumb is to keep the ratio of sweet to tangy relatively even to maintain a refreshing flavor.

If you're looking for a healthier version, consider using a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. These alternatives provide a unique warmth and complexity to the drink. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may require adjusting the ratio of water slightly, as they dissolve differently than granulated sugar.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Lemonade

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
3/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
4 cups cold water
Ice cubes
Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar. Blend until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl to remove seeds.

Mix the Lemonade

In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, strawberry puree, and cold water. Stir well until everything is blended together.

Serve and Enjoy

Fill glasses with ice cubes, pour the strawberry lemonade over the ice, and garnish with mint leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding a few slices of lemon and strawberries in the pitcher for a beautiful presentation.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Lemonade can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. The strawberry puree can be made a day in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just combine it with the lemon juice and cold water right before serving to ensure it maintains its freshness.

If you're making a large batch, consider doubling the recipe and storing half of it in the freezer. Pour it into ice cube trays or freezer-safe containers, and you’ll have a refreshing drink ready to go for your next sunny day.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Strawberry Lemonade experience, consider serving it in a large glass pitcher rather than individual cups. Garnishing with additional fresh strawberries and mint not only looks beautiful but also enhances the drink's aroma. You can also add slices of lemon for added flair and an extra zesty kick.

For an adult twist, consider transforming this refresher into a cocktail. Adding a splash of vodka or gin can create a delightful spritzer that pairs well with summer evenings. Just remember to adjust the sugar levels, as alcohol can alter the perception of sweetness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just thaw them before blending. However, fresh strawberries will yield the best flavor.

→ How long can I store the lemonade?

The strawberry lemonade can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I make this drink alcoholic?

Absolutely! Adding a splash of vodka or gin transforms this refreshing drink into a delightful cocktail.

→ Is there a sugar-free option?

Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative or omit it altogether for a healthier version.