Name: Strawberry Lemonade Sparkler
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons); 1/4 cup honey or sugar (adjust to taste); 2 cups cold sparkling water or club soda; Ice cubes; Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional); Lemon slices for garnish (optional)

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A refreshing and vibrant drink, the Strawberry Lemonade Sparkler combines the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the tanginess of fresh lemons and the effervescence of sparkling water. It’s the perfect beverage for warm days, summer gatherings, or any time you need a revitalizing, alcohol-free option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Strawberry Lemonade Sparkler offers a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and fizzy. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, visually appealing, and can be served to guests of all ages. This drink is a great alternative to sugary sodas and store-bought lemonades, allowing you to control the ingredients and sweetness level. It also makes an excellent base for mocktails or can be customized with fresh herbs or fruit slices.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh strawberries
Fresh lemon juice
Honey or simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
Cold sparkling water or club soda
Ice cubes
Lemon slices and strawberry slices (for garnish)

directions

Wash and hull the strawberries. Place them in a blender with the fresh lemon juice and sweetener (if using). Blend until smooth.
Strain the strawberry-lemon mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pulp and seeds, if desired.
Fill glasses halfway with ice cubes.
Pour the strained strawberry-lemon mixture into each glass, filling about one-third to one-half of the glass.
Top off with cold sparkling water or club soda and gently stir to combine.
Garnish with lemon and strawberry slices before serving. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

Herbal Twist: Add fresh mint or basil leaves to the blender for an herbal note.
Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lemon and lime juice for a deeper citrus flavor.
Frozen Version: Blend with ice to make a slushy-style sparkler.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or muddle a slice of jalapeño for a bold twist.
Sweeteners: Substitute honey with agave syrup, maple syrup, or sugar-free alternatives depending on dietary preferences.

storage/reheating

For the best flavor and fizz, the Strawberry Lemonade Sparkler is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the strawberry-lemon base in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the sparkling water just before serving to maintain the carbonation. This beverage does not require reheating.

FAQs

What type of strawberries should I use?

Fresh, ripe strawberries are ideal for the best flavor, but frozen strawberries can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Make sure to thaw them before blending.

Can I use bottled lemon juice?

While fresh lemon juice provides the best taste, bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch. Be sure to choose one without additives for a cleaner flavor.

Is this drink suitable for kids?

Yes, this recipe is alcohol-free and perfect for children. Adjust the sweetness based on their preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the strawberry-lemon base in advance, but mix it with sparkling water only when ready to serve to preserve the fizz.

Can I make it sugar-free?

Yes, you can use a sugar-free sweetener or omit the sweetener altogether if the strawberries are sweet enough on their own.

What’s the best way to strain the mixture?

Use a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to strain the blended mixture. This step helps achieve a smooth, pulp-free drink.

Can I turn this into a cocktail?

Absolutely. Add a splash of vodka, rum, or prosecco for an adult version of the sparkler.

How do I make this more tart or sweet?

Adjust the quantity of lemon juice and sweetener according to your taste. More lemon juice will make it tangier, while more sweetener will balance the tartness.

Can I use flavored sparkling water?

Yes, lemon, strawberry, or lime-flavored sparkling water can enhance the overall flavor of the drink.

How long does the fizz last?

Once combined with sparkling water, the drink will start to lose its carbonation within 30 minutes. Serve immediately for the best fizz.

Conclusion

The Strawberry Lemonade Sparkler is a simple yet elegant drink that brings together the bright flavors of summer in a fizzy, crowd-pleasing beverage. Whether you’re hosting a garden party, looking for a healthier soda alternative, or simply want to enjoy a homemade refreshment, this sparkler is an ideal choice. Customize it to suit your taste, and enjoy a glass of sunshine in every sip.