STRAWBERRY LEMONADE by NancyC
Makes 8 servings

1 1/2 cups sugar
4 cups water
2 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and cut into chunks
1 1/4 cups lemon juice, or the juice of 5 to 6 lemons
Optional: 1 Tablespoon lemon zest
Optional: additional whole or halved strawberries and lemon slices for garnish

Combine 1 cup of the sugar and 1 cup of the water in a small saucepan; cook and stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Set this syrup mixture aside to cool.

Combine remaining 3 cups water, 1/2 cup sugar, and the strawberries in a blender and process until smooth. Transfer this mixture to a 2–quart pitcher; add the cooled syrup, lemon juice, and lemon zest, if using. Stir to combine. Fill pitcher with crushed ice or ice cubes.

If you want to add a special touch, garnish the pitcher and/or each glass of lemonade with lemon slices and/or fresh strawberries.

NOTE: To make ahead, prepare the lemonade mixture as directed, but do not add ice. Cover and chill up to 8 hours. Add ice and serve.

Recipe from NancyC | nancy-c.com