Strawberry Lemonade

There's something about summer that makes me crave fruity drinks.  So when I saw this recipe for strawberry lemonade, I could not resist.  I had never made lemonade before (Country Time mix aside), but squeezing the lemons was a really satisfying feeling.  The mixture of the strawberry and lemon flavors in this is perfect, and the sparkling water gave it a nice touch.  A pitcher of this is perfect for summer evenings.

Strawberry Lemonade
1 cup sugar
1 cup fresh lemon juice (4-6 lemons, depending on size)
1 pound strawberries, hulled and halved
16 ounces seltzer, chilled

In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups water and 1 cup sugar to boil over medium-high heat.  Reduce to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves, about 2 minutes.  Transfer to a pitcher and refrigerate until cool, about 45 minutes.  Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.

Place the strawberries in a blender and purée until smooth.  Pour through a fine-mesh sieve or strainer into pitcher with the lemon syrup, pressing on the solids. Stir well to combine.  Stir in the seltzer and mix to combine.  Serves 4-6.

source:  recipe from Everyday Food, June 2011