Ingredients

Strawberry Syrup

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup water

Cocktail

• 1 cup vodka
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ cup strawberry syrup
• 3 cups chilled sparkling water or lemon-lime soda
• Ice cubes

Garnish

• Fresh strawberry slices
• Lemon slices
• Fresh mint leaves

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Syrup

In a small saucepan combine:

• Strawberries
• Sugar
• Water

Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the berries soften.

Mash the berries with a spoon.

Strain through a fine mesh sieve and let the syrup cool completely.

Step 2: Mix the Cocktail

In a large pitcher combine:

• Vodka
• Fresh lemon juice
• Strawberry syrup

Stir well.

Add plenty of ice.

Pour in the sparkling water just before serving and gently stir.

Step 3: Serve

Fill glasses with ice.

Pour the cocktail over the ice.

Garnish each glass with:

• Lemon slices
• Fresh strawberry slices
• Mint leaves

Serve immediately.

Tips

• Chill all ingredients before mixing.
• Use freshly squeezed lemons for the best flavor.
• Add frozen strawberries instead of ice cubes to keep the drink cold without watering it down.
• For a sweeter cocktail, stir in a little extra strawberry syrup.
• Make it alcohol-free by replacing the vodka with additional sparkling water or lemon-lime soda.

Variations

• Add fresh basil for a herbal twist.
• Replace vodka with gin for a botanical flavor.
• Use prosecco instead of sparkling water for a bubbly spritz.
• Add raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry version.
• Blend with ice for a frozen strawberry lemonade cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this refreshing cocktail with:

• Grilled shrimp skewers
• Chicken sliders
• Fresh fruit platter
• Summer salads
• Fish tacos
• Charcuterie boards
• Strawberry shortcake
• Lemon bars
• Cheesecake

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 190
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Sugar: 14g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 8mg