Summer just got a whole lot brighter! Forget those sugary, artificial drinks. Today, we're making a homemade strawberry lemonade that's bursting with fresh flavor and is surprisingly easy to whip up. This recipe uses the convenience of Country Time Lemonade mix but elevates it with the sweetness and vibrant color of fresh strawberries. It’s the perfect healthy drink for a hot day, a delightful addition to your next barbecue, or a simple treat for any occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious and easy-to-make beverage!
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) can frozen concentrated Country Time Lemonade
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 cups cold water
- 1/2 cup sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)
- Strawberry slices (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Strawberries: In a medium bowl, gently muddle the sliced strawberries using a fork or a muddler. This releases their juices and intensifies their flavor. You can also use a blender for a smoother consistency if desired.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, combine the muddled strawberries, sugar, and cold water. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
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Add Lemonade Mix: Add the frozen concentrated Country Time Lemonade to the pitcher. Stir gently until it's fully dissolved and the mixture is well combined. Don't worry if a few small ice crystals remain.
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Chill & Serve: Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is key for a truly refreshing drink. Once chilled, serve over ice. Garnish with fresh mint sprigs and strawberry slices for an extra touch of elegance.
Tips for the Best Country Time Strawberry Lemonade:
- Sweetness Level: Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet lemonade, start with 1/4 cup of sugar and add more to taste. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
- Strawberry Variety: Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. Different varieties will offer slightly different sweetness and flavor profiles.
- Make it Ahead: This lemonade can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will actually deepen over time!
- Frozen Strawberries: If fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them completely before muddling.
Variations:
- Raspberry Lemonade: Substitute raspberries for strawberries for a delightful twist on this classic recipe.
- Spicy Strawberry Lemonade: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Sparkling Strawberry Lemonade: Add club soda or sparkling water for a bubbly and refreshing drink.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-150 (depending on sugar added)
- Sugar: Varies based on sugar added.
- Carbohydrates: Varies based on sugar added.
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This delicious Country Time Strawberry Lemonade is perfect for satisfying your thirst on a hot summer day. It's a simple yet elegant beverage that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. It's also a fantastic example of how easy homemade cooking can be and how even simple recipes can become delicious dishes. Give it a try – you won't regret it!