Triple Berry Lemonade Summer (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 4 cups water, divided
02 - 1 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
04 - 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest
05 - 1 1/2 cups frozen triple berry blend, thawed, or 2 cups fresh mixed berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries)

# Instructions:

01 - If using frozen berries, place them in a strainer set over a bowl and allow them to thaw fully, reserving all juices.
02 - Combine 2 cups of water and sugar in a large pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
03 - Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest into the hot syrup. Allow mixture to cool completely.
04 - In a blender, combine 1 cup of the cooled lemon mixture with the berry blend. Blend until thoroughly combined.
05 - Pour the blended berry mixture through a fine-mesh strainer to remove seeds. Discard solids.
06 - Add the strained berry mixture, reserved berry juice, remaining water, and the rest of the lemon mixture to the pot. Stir well to combine.
07 - Transfer the lemonade to a pitcher. Refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. Serve over ice.

# Notes:

01 - For a clearer drink, strain the berry mixture thoroughly before combining with the lemonade base.