When I was a kid, it seemed like every May, just as the school year was drawing to a close, the Country Time lemonade commercial would start running on TV. I can close my eyes and see it now—a golden summer day, kids swinging on a tire swing hanging from a huge oak tree, and a tall, sweaty glass of sunshine-colored lemonade. If that doesn’t make you let out a sigh, you might want to check your settings.
Growing up, we drank that powdered lemonade by the pitcherful, and there’s no shame in that. But these days, I find myself eschewing powdery mixes and yearning for homemade lemonade instead.
Here at Southern Living, we love our lemonade. Here are a few of our favorite recipes that will quench your thirst as we dream of summer fun.
Fruity Spins
First up: Strawberry Lemonade. I remember drinking that pink Country Time lemonade by the gallon—but there sure weren’t any real strawberries in there! This super-summery recipe teaches you how to make a fresh strawberry syrup that gives the lemonade a gorgeous pink hue and flavor that can’t be beat.
Next on the lemonade list: Peach Lemonade. When peaches are in season, there’s nothing Southerners won’t throw them in, from peach salads to peach relishes to grilled peaches with meat. This peach lemonade uses the same method as our strawberry version, calling to cook down peaches and sugar into a peachy-keen syrup that’s also perfect for mixing into summer cocktails.
For a frosty twist, may I suggest Frozen Blueberry Lemonade? This recipe is even easier than the others, and simply involves blending up frozen blueberries, lemonade, and lemon sorbet. Is it a summer dessert or a drink? You choose.
Surprising Twists
So here’s a curveball: Big Batch Cajun Lemonade. I’ll be honest, when I first heard the words “Cajun Lemonade,” I was like, “Is there shrimp in this?” I am pleased to report there are no shrimp in the recipe, just lots of booze and a splash of hot sauce for fun.
And finally, for those of use who love to keep things classic and cool, there’s our good-ole Homemade Lemonade. Made with lots of lemons and plenty of sugar, it’s the summertime drinks of your dreams.
No matter which one you choose, you’re guaranteed to have a good, old-fashioned Southern summer.
Read the original article on Southern Living