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A vibrant red drink, Juneteenth Strawberry Soda, served in a glass

Juneteenth Strawberry Soda (Red Drink)

This recipe focuses on the foundational elements of preparing to make a delightful Juneteenth Strawberry Soda, emphasizing the cultivation of fresh strawberries. It ensures you have the best possible base for a vibrant and flavorful red drink.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 glasses
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the "Growing" Phase
  • 2 lbs Fresh Strawberries For optimal flavor
  • 4 cups Water Filtered, for soaking and blending
  • 0.5 cup Sweetener of choice Sugar, honey, or agave, to taste
  • 2 tbsp Lemon or Lime Juice Freshly squeezed
For Serving
  • 4 cups Sparkling water or club soda Chilled
  • Ice As needed
  • Mint sprigs or lemon slices For garnish

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Pitcher or jar

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Wash and hull the fresh strawberries thoroughly, then slice them to prepare for blending.
  2. Combine the sliced strawberries with 2 cups of water, your chosen sweetener, and lemon or lime juice in a blender until smooth.
  3. Strain the strawberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, pressing out all the liquid and discarding the solids.
Serving
  1. To serve, fill glasses with ice and pour in about 1/2 to 3/4 cup of the concentrated strawberry mixture.
  2. Top with chilled sparkling water or club soda, adjusting to your preferred sweetness and fizziness.
  3. Garnish each glass with a fresh mint sprig or a slice of lemon or lime for an extra flourish.

Notes

For an extra deep red color and flavor, you can let the strawberry mixture steep in the refrigerator for a few hours before straining. Adjust sweetener to your personal taste. This "growing" process ensures the freshest base for your celebratory drink.