Hibiscus Strawberry Lemonade
	
		Hibiscus Strawberry Lemonade is a vibrant and refreshing summer drink combining tart dried hibiscus flowers, juicy fresh strawberries, zesty lemon juice, and natural sweetener. This naturally colorful beverage provides a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, ideal for hydration and enjoyment on hot days or festive occasions.
	 
	
		
							- Author: Judy
 
							- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 
							- Cook Time: 10 minutes
 
							- Total Time: 25 minutes
 
							- Yield: 6 servings
 
							- Category: Beverages
 
							- Method: Steeping and blending
 
							- Cuisine: American
 
							- Diet: Gluten Free
 
					
	 
	
		
		
			Ingredients
- Dried hibiscus flowers – 1/2 cup
 
- Fresh strawberries – 1 cup, rinsed and hulled
 
- Fresh lemon juice – 1/2 cup (about 2-3 lemons)
 
- Water – 4 cups (divided)
 
- Sugar or natural sweetener – 1/4 to 1/2 cup, adjust to taste
 
- Ice cubes – optional, as needed for serving
 
		 
	 
	
		
		
			
- Prepare the Hibiscus Tea Base: Steep 1/2 cup dried hibiscus flowers in 2 cups of hot water for about 10 minutes to extract the vibrant color and tangy flavor. Strain out the petals and let the tea cool completely.
 
- Blend the Fresh Strawberries: Rinse and hull 1 cup fresh strawberries, then blend until smooth. Optionally strain the puree for a smoother texture or keep seeds for a rustic feel.
 
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pitcher, mix the cooled hibiscus tea, strawberry puree, 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, and 2 cups of cold water. Stir well and add 1/4 to 1/2 cup sugar or natural sweetener to taste, ensuring it dissolves fully.
 
- Chill and Serve: Add ice cubes to the pitcher or individual glasses to chill instantly. Stir gently and garnish with fresh strawberry slices, lemon wheels, or mint sprigs before serving.
 
		 
	 
	
		Notes
		
			
- Use room temperature water to steep hibiscus for better flavor and color extraction.
 
- Adjust sweetness gradually as the tartness of hibiscus and lemons can vary.
 
- Straining the hibiscus tea and strawberry puree creates a smoother lemonade.
 
- Chill the lemonade before serving for best flavor and refreshment.
 
- Try alternative sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar for unique flavors.
 
		 
	 
	
		Nutrition
		
							- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximate)
 
							- Calories: 80
 
							- Sugar: 18g
 
							- Sodium: 5mg
 
							- Fat: 0g
 
							- Saturated Fat: 0g
 
							- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
 
							- Trans Fat: 0g
 
							- Carbohydrates: 21g
 
							- Fiber: 2g
 
							- Protein: 1g
 
							- Cholesterol: 0mg
 
					
	 
	
		Keywords: hibiscus lemonade, strawberry lemonade, summer drink, refreshing beverage, hydrating drink, natural sweetener, fruity lemonade