Description
Hibiscus Strawberry Lemonade is a vibrant and refreshing drink that combines the tart zest of freshly squeezed lemons, the floral aroma of hibiscus, and the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries. This easy-to-make beverage offers instant refreshment with a beautiful deep red color and a perfect balance of flavors, ideal for cooling off on warm days or enjoying as a healthy treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 4 cups water (for steeping)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
- 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4–6 lemons)
- 1/2 cup sweetener of choice (honey, agave, or simple syrup, adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes (as needed for serving)
- Additional 2–3 cups water (to dilute, adjust to taste)
Optional Variations
- Fresh mint leaves (for infusion)
- Sparkling water (to replace still water for fizz)
- Vodka or rum (a splash for alcoholic version)
- Stevia or erythritol (for sugar-free option)
- Fresh ginger slices (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Prepare the Hibiscus Tea: Simmer 1 cup dried hibiscus flowers in 4 cups hot water for about 10 minutes to fully infuse the vibrant color and floral aroma. Strain out the flowers and allow the tea to cool completely.
- Blend the Strawberries: While the hibiscus tea cools, wash and hull 1 cup fresh strawberries, then blend them until smooth. Optionally, strain the puree to remove seeds for a clearer beverage.
- Combine Lemon Juice and Sweetener: In a large pitcher, mix 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice with 1/2 cup of your chosen sweetener. Stir well until the sweetener is completely dissolved.
- Mix All Ingredients Together: Add the cooled hibiscus tea and strawberry puree to the lemon and sweetener mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine. Adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more sweetener or water to your liking.
- Chill and Serve: Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the Hibiscus Strawberry Lemonade over. Garnish with lemon slices, whole strawberries, or fresh mint leaves as desired. Serve immediately for the best refreshing experience.
Notes
- Steep Wisely: Avoid over-steeping hibiscus to prevent bitterness; 10 minutes is ideal.
- Sweetness Control: Start with less sweetener and add gradually to achieve your preferred flavor balance.
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the lemonade before serving to maximize refreshment.
- Use Fresh Fruit: For optimal flavor, use ripe strawberries and freshly squeezed lemons.
- Strain for Smoothness: Strain the strawberry puree if you prefer a seed-free texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Infusing and Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 ml)
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg