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Nothing beats this pink lavender lemonade when the sun is out or you just want a flowery upgrade from standard lemonade. It's bright it's tangy and bursting with juicy strawberries and plenty of floral kick. It always steals the show at our backyard hangouts or whenever we host a brunch.
I first tried making this on Mother’s Day with some lavender growing outside. Now we whip it up for every outdoor celebration. Folks ask for it over and over again.
Dreamy Ingredients
- Optional food grade lavender oil: for a stronger floral note, but go easy—essential oils pack a punch
- Big strawberries: the juicier and darker the berries the prettier and tastier your lemonade
- Lavender sprigs: makes your lemonade smell amazing, just make sure they're food safe and clean
- Ice cold water: instantly brings down the temp so your drink is icy fresh
- Water: you'll use some to make the syrup and save more for mixing in at the end, filtered is best if you have it
- Lemon juice: gives everything that classic lemon punch, Meyer lemons are sweeter if you like
- Sugar: tames the sourness and blends the flavors, classic white sugar works best
Step-by-Step Directions
- Chill and Serve:
- Tip in two cups of really cold water and give it a good mix. Taste it and see if you want it milder—just add more water. Pour over lots of ice and finish with a sprig of lavender or some strawberry slices to look extra nice
- Strain and Finish:
- Pour everything through a fine strainer into your biggest pitcher. Toss out the leftover berries and lavender so only the pretty liquid is left
- Infuse Flavors:
- With the syrup bubbling take the pan off the burner then throw in the lavender pieces and hulled strawberries. Let all those flavors soak together about fifteen minutes so the syrup gets bright pink and picks up the floral note
- Make the Syrup:
- Stir together the sugar, lemon juice and two cups of water in a pot and set it over medium. Heat and stir now and then till you see the sugar totally dissolve and the syrup goes see-through
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If you've got Meyer lemons, use them for their sweet and sunny scent. Squeezing lemons always brings me back to making pink drinks with my kids. This always turns snack time into something special.
Keeping It Fresh
Pop any leftover pink lemonade in the fridge for up to three days just cover it up tight. Flavors might settle so shake or stir before you pour again. Freeze leftovers in popsicle molds for a sweet chilly snack
Simple Swaps
No fresh lavender lying around? A teeny bit of edible lavender oil will do it. Out of Meyer lemons? Standard lemons work fine, but you can add a spoon more sugar to even things out
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Serving Ideas
Looks stunning at brunch baby showers or out in the garden. Want a grown-up twist? Top it off with a splash of fizzy water or your favorite booze
Origins and Inspiration
This lemon-lavender drink started with Mediterranean habits—mixing fresh herbs and citrus in the heat. Strawberries put an American spin on it and really make it pop for a crowd
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Is it okay to use any lemons if I can't find Meyer lemons?
Yep, regular lemons are fine, though Meyer lemons taste a bit sweeter and won’t make the drink as tart. That little difference boosts the floral vibe.
- → How can I keep the lavender from taking over the whole flavor?
Stick to just two sprigs, and let it sit for only about 15 minutes. Keep it gentle—skip that lavender oil if you want a softer flavor.
- → What’s the reason for tossing strawberries in the mix while everything’s still hot?
Letting them soak while things are warm gives you more color and better flavor, and the lemonade turns a gorgeous bright pink.
- → Could I make this drink the day before?
Definitely! Just mix and strain it ahead, stash it in the fridge, and pour it over some ice when you’re ready to serve. Easy and super fresh.
- → Got any good ideas for garnishes?
Pop in a few sliced strawberries or maybe add a lavender sprig on top of each glass. Makes things look special every time.
- → Why bother straining after it sits?
Straining gets rid of the lavender bits and any chunky berry pieces. You’ll end up with a smooth, pretty pink drink.