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Chill out with a glass of Pink Lavender Lemonade that’s perfect for sunny days or when you’ve got friends over. The floral lavender gives it a gentle twist, and the strawberries with Meyer lemons create a bold and cheerful flavor that’ll pop in your pitcher. I first made this for a baby shower, and now it’s my star cooler that folks keep coming back for—they always want to know how it’s done!
I once served this to a crowd who didn’t believe in fancy drinks. Next thing I knew, the pitcher was empty—everyone wanted seconds. It’s secretly a huge hit!
Refreshing Ingredients
- Granulated sugar: brings all the sweetness you want. I like to use superfine sugar—it melts fast and smooth.
- Fresh Meyer lemon juice: has a sweet gentle tang. If all you’ve got are regular lemons, taste and toss in extra sugar if needed. Pick lemons that feel heavy and look shiny.
- Water and ice: use very cold filtered water, and ice, to keep it crisp and fresh.
- Fresh lavender sprigs: give just the right floral nudge. Go for organic so the taste stays clean and not bitter.
- Large ripe strawberries: these bring that pretty blush and a juicy berry kick. Grab berries that smell good and have deep color.
- Food-safe lavender oil (just a couple drops): totally up to you, but it can amp up the floral notes. Make sure it’s labeled for eating and don’t overdo it.
Easy Peasy Steps
- Serve and Chill:
- Pop lots of ice into your glasses and pour in that gorgeous pink lemonade. Sip right away or pop it in the fridge to keep cool.
- Strain Everything:
- Tip your steeped mixture through a strainer over a pitcher. Push the fruit down with a spoon to get all the good juicy flavors out. Pour in the extra cold water and, if you’re feeling it, a drop of lavender oil. Stir up well.
- Let the Flavors Mingle:
- After heating, take it off the stove and toss in sliced strawberries and lavender. Let them rest together for around fifteen minutes so all the berry and floral goodness comes out strong.
- Make the Lemon Sugar Mix:
- Mix sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat gently, stirring until everything’s melted. Let it bubble for a bit—it’ll turn into a sweet, fragrant syrup that sets the tone for the drink.
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This looked amazing at my sister’s birthday brunch, and now whenever my pals come by, I always top it off with extra lavender sprigs—so pretty!
Gorgeous Pink from Strawberries
It takes me right back to summer hangouts and my mom explaining how to choose the best lemons for the brightest flavors.
Tips for Storing
Pour leftovers into a sealed pitcher and stash in the fridge—they’ll be good for up to three days. Just give it a little shake before you pour. If you’re prepping early, toss in the ice at the last minute so your drink doesn’t get watered down.
Swap It Up
No Meyer lemons? Regular ones work, just sweeten a bit more. Want a color change? Swap out strawberries for blueberries. Fresh edible rose petals can stand in for lavender if you feel like experimenting with different floral notes.
Fun Ways to Enjoy
This is great for picnics, showers, or a light sipper for cocktail hour. Try topping it with sparkling water for a little fizz, or match it with a cheese and fruit platter for something easy and tasty.
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Where It Comes From and Why
Serving lemonade is a classic friendly gesture in lots of cultures. Lavender hints at French countryside fields, while pink strawberry drinks were the hit of old-school American outdoor parties.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use regular lemons instead of Meyer lemons?
You sure can! Just know they're a bit more tart, so you might want to toss in a little extra sugar for a smoother taste.
- → How should I incorporate lavender flavor without overpowering the drink?
Let fresh lavender soak for only as long as needed, and add lavender oil just a drop or two at a time. It's easy to go too strong, so keep it light.
- → Can the pink lemonade be prepared in advance?
Definitely. Chill in the fridge until you're set to pour. Drop in ice last so it stays bright and fresh.
- → What is the purpose of using strawberries?
They bring a gentle berry flavor, plus the bold pink color and a touch of sweetness.
- → Is it possible to make this refresher less sweet?
Of course! Cut back on sugar from the start or taste after mixing and tweak until it hits just right for you.