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This State Fair Strawberry Lemonade brings all the summer fair magic right to your kitchen! After making countless batches trying to recreate that perfect balance of sweet and tart, I finally nailed the recipe that takes me straight back to those sunny afternoons wandering the fairgrounds. The vibrant pink color and fresh strawberry flavor make this the ultimate refreshing treat for hot summer days.
Last weekend, I served this at our backyard barbecue and even the kids chose it over soda!
Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips:
- Lemons: Choose heavy, fragrant lemons for maximum juice
- Strawberries: Look for bright red berries with no white shoulders
- Sugar: Regular granulated works perfectly for the simple syrup
- Fresh Mint: Optional but adds a beautiful finishing touch
- Ice: Plenty of it for that refreshing chill
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Detailed Cooking Instructions:
- Perfecting Your Simple Syrup
- Bring water to a rolling boil before adding sugar. Stir continuously until sugar completely dissolves. Look for crystal-clear appearance. Allow to cool completely before using.
- Mastering the Lemon Juicing
- Roll lemons on counter before cutting to release more juice. Cut lemons in half horizontally for optimal juicing. Remove seeds as you go for easier straining. Strain through fine mesh if you prefer no pulp.
- Creating the Strawberry Purée
- Hull strawberries completely to avoid any bitter taste. Add water gradually for perfect consistency. Blend until completely smooth. Strain if desired for seed-free texture.
- Combining for Perfect Balance
- Mix simple syrup and lemon juice first. Add strawberry purée gradually, tasting as you go. Chill thoroughly before serving. Adjust sweetness if needed after chilling.
Growing up, my grandmother would always make a special pitcher of strawberry lemonade for our summer gatherings. She'd garnish each glass with a perfect strawberry slice and a sprig of mint from her garden. Now I carry on the tradition with this recipe, and it always brings back those wonderful memories.
Make-Ahead Magic:
This lemonade actually improves if made a day ahead! The flavors have time to blend perfectly, and having it ready in the refrigerator makes entertaining so much easier. I often prepare a double batch when we're expecting guests - it's always the first drink to disappear!
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Serving Suggestions:
For a special presentation, rim glasses with sugar or freeze strawberry slices in ice cubes. For adult gatherings, this lemonade makes an excellent base for a spiked version - just add a splash of vodka or white rum. It's also beautiful served in a clear glass pitcher with fresh strawberry and lemon slices floating on top.
This strawberry lemonade has become my signature summer drink, the one friends and family request at every gathering. There's something about that perfect balance of sweet strawberries and tart lemons that captures the essence of summer in every sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does this keep?
- Stores in refrigerator for up to 5 days in covered container.
- → Can I use bottled lemon juice?
- Fresh is best, but bottled works in a pinch - adjust amount to taste.
- → How can I make it less sweet?
- Reduce sugar to 1½ cups or add more lemon juice.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
- Yes, thawed frozen strawberries work well too.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Yes, it actually tastes better after flavors meld for a few hours.