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This frozen strawberry lemonade has become my summer salvation during scorching afternoons when the heat feels unbearable. The vibrant pink color and refreshing taste transport me to beachside vacations even when I'm just in my backyard.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly brutal heatwave last summer, and it has since become my go-to refreshment when hosting backyard gatherings. My neighbors now specifically request it whenever they stop by during summer months.
Ingredients
- Frozen strawberries: fresh berries simply don't create the same slushy texture and frozen ones eliminate the need for extra ice
- Lemonade: use store bought for convenience or homemade for more control over sweetness
- Ice: creates the perfect slushy consistency without watering down the flavors
- Sugar: optional for adjusting sweetness particularly if your strawberries aren't naturally sweet enough
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Blend The Base:
- Add frozen strawberries, lemonade, and ice to your high-speed blender. Use the pulse function initially to break down the larger frozen pieces before running the blender continuously until you achieve a completely smooth consistency with no chunks remaining. This typically takes about 30-45 seconds in a powerful blender.
- Adjust Sweetness:
- Stop the blender and taste your mixture. If it needs additional sweetness, add sugar or simple syrup starting with just one tablespoon, then blend again for another 15 seconds. The sweetness should balance the natural tartness of the lemonade without overpowering it.
- Serve Immediately:
- Pour into tall glasses right away for the best texture. For a more elegant presentation, run a lemon wedge around the rim and dip in sugar before pouring. Add garnishes just before serving so they maintain their fresh appearance.
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The frozen strawberries are truly the magic ingredient here. I once tried making this with fresh berries and extra ice, but the flavor was diluted and the texture was all wrong. Using frozen berries gives that perfect consistency while maintaining intense strawberry flavor that pairs beautifully with the lemonade.
Make Ahead Options
While this drink is best enjoyed immediately after blending, you can prepare components ahead of time. Make a larger batch of the mixture without ice and freeze in ice cube trays. When ready to serve, blend these flavored cubes with a splash of fresh lemonade for an instant frozen treat. This method preserves the flavor better than trying to refreeze the completely blended beverage.
Customization Ideas
This frozen strawberry lemonade welcomes creative variations. Try substituting raspberries or blueberries for the strawberries, or use pink lemonade for an even more vibrant color. For a tropical twist, add half a cup of frozen mango or pineapple to the blend. The basic formula remains the same, but these simple swaps create entirely new flavor profiles while maintaining the refreshing quality of the original.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate this simple beverage by serving it in mason jars with paper straws for casual gatherings or in chilled margarita glasses for more formal occasions. Create a self serve station with various fruit garnishes, herbs like basil or mint, and different colored sugar for rimming glasses. This drink pairs perfectly with light summer fare like grilled chicken, fish tacos, or simple salads.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries. Just add additional ice for the slushy texture.
- → What other sweeteners can I use?
You can use honey, maple syrup, or any sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
- → How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar or use unsweetened lemonade in the recipe.
- → Can I add alcohol to this drink?
Yes, adding vodka, rum, or tequila can turn this into a refreshing cocktail.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer and blend again before serving.