This strawberry lemonade recipe is literally my go-to summer refreshment—it’s like a happy little sunshine in a glass! Not only is it super easy to whip up, but the burst of fresh strawberries and zesty lemons always takes me back to those carefree, blissful days of childhood.
I adore whipping up revitalizing beverages, and my Limonada Fresca De Limón Y Fresa is a prime example. Blending bright strawberries with the juice of just-picked lemons, I make a drink that’s both sweet and sour in the best possible way.
And I think the real magic comes when you pour it over ice. On a hot day, it’s just spellbinding.
Ingredients
Strawberries boast high levels of vitamin C, taste sweet, and have a slight tang.
Lemon Juice: High in vitamin C, contributes an invigorating tang.
Sweetness is provided by sugar.
Adjust amount to taste, for balance is key.
Mint Leaves: Refreshing fragrance; assists in digestive processes.
Ingredient Quantities
- 4 cups of cold water
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice (around 3-4 lemons)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Strawberry slices, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Combine 1 cup of cold water with the sliced strawberries in a blender.
2. Strawberries should be blended until smooth and no chunks remain.
3. Strain the puree of strawberries through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher. This removes the seeds and pulp, leaving only the juicy goodness of the strawberries.
4. Combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with the strawberry juice in the pitcher.
5. Add the last 3 cups of cold water.
6. Add to the pitcher 1/2 cup of sugar, and stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
7. Sample the limonada and make any needed adjustments to the sweetness by incorporating additional sugar.
8. Let the flavors blend together in the chilling refrigerator for at least an hour.
9. To serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the limonada over the ice.
10. Before serving, you may want to add fresh mint leaves, fresh strawberry slices, and fresh lemon slices as garnish to your dish.
Equipment Needed
1. Blender
2. Fine mesh sieve
3. Pitcher
4. Measuring cup
5. Mixing spoon
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Juicer
9. Glasses for serving
FAQ
- Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?Bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor.
- How can I make this recipe sugar-free?A sugar substitute can be used instead of sugar, and some good ones are stevia, erythritol, and monk fruit sweetener.
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?You can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw them before blending to achieve the correct consistency.
- How do I make this drink less sweet?Add more water and lemon juice, or cut back on sugar, to bring the sweetness to a level that suits your taste.
- How long can I store this limonada in the refrigerator?An airtight container in the refrigerator keeps it fresh for up to 3 days.
- Can I add alcohol to make this a cocktail?Certainly! A refreshing cocktail version is made with a shot of rum or tequila.
Substitutions and Variations
Sparkling water can be substituted for cold water for a fizzy version.
Substitute frozen strawberries for fresh strawberries, letting them thaw slightly before blending.
Bottled lemon juice can be used instead of freshly squeezed lemon juice in a pinch, but nothing beats fresh lemon juice for flavor.
Honey or agave nectar can take sugar’s place, offering a different sweetness profile. The amount to adjust is a matter of taste; use what suits you best.
Basil leaves can be used in place of fresh mint leaves for a unique twist.
Pro Tips
1. Macerate the Strawberries: Before blending, consider macerating the sliced strawberries with a bit of sugar for 15-30 minutes. This enhances their natural sweetness and helps draw out the juices, which can deepen the flavor of your beverage.
2. Use Simple Syrup: Instead of adding granulated sugar directly, make a simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over low heat. This ensures that the sugar is fully dissolved and evenly distributed, making for a smoother drink.
3. Adjust Acidity Levels: Taste the lemon juice before mixing. The acidity of lemons can vary, so if it’s too tart for your liking, reduce the lemon juice slightly or balance with a bit more sugar or a pinch of salt, which can enhance sweetness.
4. Infuse with Mint: To incorporate a refreshing mint flavor throughout the drink, bruise a few mint leaves and add them to the pitcher while the limonada is chilling. Remove them just before serving to avoid overpowering the drink.
5. Chill All Ingredients: To prevent dilution when serving over ice, ensure all ingredients, especially the water and lemon juice, are chilled before making the limonada. This keeps the drink flavorful and refreshing.
Limonada Fresca De Limon Y Fresa Recipe
My favorite Limonada Fresca De Limon Y Fresa Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Blender
2. Fine mesh sieve
3. Pitcher
4. Measuring cup
5. Mixing spoon
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Juicer
9. Glasses for serving
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of cold water
- 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice (around 3-4 lemons)
- 1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Strawberry slices, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon slices, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Combine 1 cup of cold water with the sliced strawberries in a blender.
2. Strawberries should be blended until smooth and no chunks remain.
3. Strain the puree of strawberries through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher. This removes the seeds and pulp, leaving only the juicy goodness of the strawberries.
4. Combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice with the strawberry juice in the pitcher.
5. Add the last 3 cups of cold water.
6. Add to the pitcher 1/2 cup of sugar, and stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
7. Sample the limonada and make any needed adjustments to the sweetness by incorporating additional sugar.
8. Let the flavors blend together in the chilling refrigerator for at least an hour.
9. To serve, fill glasses with ice and pour the limonada over the ice.
10. Before serving, you may want to add fresh mint leaves, fresh strawberry slices, and fresh lemon slices as garnish to your dish.
