This refreshing Peach Strawberry Lemonade is a perfect blend of sweet peaches, juicy strawberries, and tart lemon juice. It’s a delightful drink for hot summer days or any time you crave a fruity, homemade lemonade.
Ingredients:
- 4 ripe peaches, chopped into large chunks
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, stems removed and halved
- 1 cup water (for blending)
- 1/2 cup water (for simple syrup)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Ice
- 1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice
- 6-8 cups cold water
- Fresh chopped strawberries, to garnish
- Fresh sliced peaches, to garnish
- Lemon wedges, to garnish
Instructions:
- Puree Fruits: In a blender, combine the chopped peaches, halved strawberries, and 1 cup of water. Blend until smooth.
- Strain the Puree: Pour the puree through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl or pitcher to remove the pulp, leaving you with a smooth juice. Set aside.
- Make Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan, bring 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar to a boil. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, then remove from heat and let it cool.
- Mix the Lemonade: In a large pitcher, combine the fresh lemon juice, the strained fruit puree, the cooled simple syrup, and 6-8 cups of cold water. Stir well to combine.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the lemonade until it’s cold. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh chopped strawberries, sliced peaches, and lemon wedges.
Serving:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Variations:
- Herbal Twist: Add fresh mint or basil leaves to the lemonade for a refreshing herbal note.
- Sparkling Version: Replace 2 cups of the cold water with sparkling water for a fizzy twist.
- Honey Lemonade: Substitute the granulated sugar with honey for a richer, natural sweetness.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving as the fruit puree may settle.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen fruits instead of fresh?
A: Yes, frozen peaches and strawberries can be used. Just make sure to thaw them before blending.
Q: How can I make this lemonade less sweet?
A: You can reduce the amount of sugar in the simple syrup or use more water when diluting the lemonade.
Q: Can I make this lemonade ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the lemonade a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving.
Q: Is there a way to make this lemonade without straining the puree?
A: If you prefer a more textured lemonade, you can skip the straining step, but the drink will be thicker and pulpier.
This Peach Strawberry Lemonade is a vibrant and flavorful drink that’s sure to quench your thirst. It’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or simply enjoying on a warm day!