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Strawberry Coconut Water Lemonade is my summertime secret for beating the heat on long afternoons or backyard get-togethers. Juicy strawberries and zippy lemons meet naturally sweet coconut water for a drink that feels special yet takes almost no effort. One sip and you will understand why my friends always ask for refills. It is a bright and breezy way to celebrate sunny days.
My go-to for warm days when regular lemonade just feels boring. Last summer I brought a cooler of this to the park and even the adults raced to try it. It never lasts long in my fridge.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: bring natural sweetness and a beautiful rosy color Pick deep red berries with a fresh fragrance
- Lemon juice: provides bright refreshing tartness Use lemons that feel heavy with juice
- Coconut water: adds gentle sweetness and extra hydration Look for pure versions with no added sugar
- Sugar white: rounds out the acidity and makes your simple syrup Use organic or fair trade if you can
- Still water: starts the syrup and dilutes the lemonade as needed Use filtered water for the cleanest flavor
- Sparkling water optional: adds fizz if you like bubbles Chill well before using
- Pick the best fruit you can find because their freshness will show in every sip
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Simple Syrup:
- Combine water and sugar in a glass bowl or mason jar then microwave for about one and a half minutes The goal is to just dissolve the sugar Stir well until no grains remain Cool in the refrigerator It is fine to make this up to several days ahead
- Blend Strawberries and Lemon:
- Add hulled and halved strawberries and fresh lemon juice into a blender Puree until very smooth blending longer if needed for a velvety texture Scrape down the sides to be sure everything is blended evenly
- Mix and Adjust:
- Pour the strawberry lemon mixture into a large pitcher Stir in chilled coconut water Then gradually add simple syrup tasting as you go Some strawberries are sweeter than others so adjust the sugar to match your tastes I like to start with a quarter cup plus a couple of spoonfuls
- Chill:
- Refrigerate the lemonade until serving time This lets all the flavors come together and gets your drink perfectly cold
- Serve:
- Pour into glasses over plenty of ice For extra sparkle top off each glass with a splash of chilled sparkling water If you want to get fancy garnish with extra strawberries or lemon wheels
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I love how the coconut water seamlessly melts into the fruit flavors It always reminds me of beach vacations when I would sip fresh coconut juice with my favorite people and watch the sun set Later my daughter and I turned the leftovers into popsicles for a sweet treat after swimming
Storage Tips
Store leftover lemonade covered in the refrigerator for up to three days Give it a good stir before pouring If you want to freeze pour into popsicle molds for fruity frozen snacks The mixture may separate a bit after chilling so shake or stir before serving again
Ingredient Substitutions
If strawberries are not in season try a medley of berries or even ripe peaches For coconut water you can substitute cold filtered water but the drink will lose its unique twist If you need to skip the sugar use a honey syrup or agave syrup adjusting to taste
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Serving Suggestions
Serve over ice with wheels of lemon and slices of strawberry Add a fresh mint sprig for extra color and aroma For grown up parties splash in vodka or champagne to turn this into a festive cocktail Leftovers poured into molds make vibrant popsicles that kids will love too
Strawberry Lemonade Around the World
Similar fruit lemonades are enjoyed all over the globe Lemon water mixes with fresh berries in Europe and Asia sometimes with sparkling water for an added fizz Coconut water blends are especially popular in the tropics for hydration and sweetness This recipe combines traditions in a way that always feels fresh
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them slightly before blending for best texture.
- → How do I adjust the sweetness?
Start by blending the fruit, then add simple syrup gradually, tasting as you go until you reach your ideal sweetness.
- → What's the benefit of using coconut water?
Coconut water adds hydration and a subtle tropical flavor without overpowering the strawberries and lemon.
- → Can I prepare this drink in advance?
Absolutely! Mix everything except sparkling water, refrigerate, and add ice and bubbles just before serving.
- → Any tips for juicing lemons?
Microwave lemons for 20–30 seconds and roll to release more juice before slicing and squeezing.
- → How can I make this a cocktail?
Add a splash of vodka or champagne to your glass for a festive adult twist.