STRAWBERRY LEMONADE CONCENTRATE (MAKE-AHEAD SUMMER DRINK RECIPE)
This Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate is a refreshing make-ahead summer drink base made with fresh strawberries and lemons. Just mix with water or sparkling water for a perfectly sweet, tangy, and thirst-quenching lemonade anytime.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Blender
- Fine mesh strainer
- Pitcher or jars
Ingredients
Fruit Base:
- 3 cups fresh strawberries hulled
- 1 cup water
Lemon Base:
- 1 ½ cups fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
Sweetener:
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoon honey
To Serve:
- cold water or sparkling water
- ice cubes
- fresh strawberries and lemon slices for garnish
Instructions
Cook Strawberries:
- In a saucepan, combine strawberries, water, and sugar. Cook over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until strawberries soften and release juices.
Blend:
- Blend the mixture until smooth using a blender or immersion blender.
Strain:
- Strain mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove seeds and pulp.
Add Lemon:
- Stir in fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and honey. Mix well until fully combined.
Chill:
- Let concentrate cool completely, then store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Serve:
- Mix 1 part concentrate with 2–3 parts cold or sparkling water. Serve over ice with fresh fruit garnish.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness based on your taste.
- Great for parties—can be made ahead and stored.
- Also works well with lime for a twist.