Recipe #68: Old Fashioned Strawberry Lemonade

Although this recipe contains about as much sugar as kool-aid, it has many things going for it...it's made from scratch, it takes less than 15 minutes to make, it's very refreshing and looks absolutely beautiful.  I have a few friends who pretty much drink nothing else all year round, and since making it for myself, love having it every once in awhile.  This lemonade doesn't last very long as it can be pretty addictive.  It's a lovely addition to a luncheon, and it's also the makings of a wonderful cocktail by adding vodka, or even champagne.

1 1/2 cups strawberries, cut in half                           1 1/2 cups fresh lemon juice, about 5 lg lemons
1 cup sugar                                                                     3 cups cold water

Puree berries with 2 tbsp of the lemon juice in blender or small food processor.  At this point, if you want a lot of the seeds removed, place through a large sieve into a large bowl.  If not, just place puree in a large bowl. I put through a sieve once, but didn't see much difference. Stir together puree, remaining lemon juice, sugar and water...I use a whisk to make sure the sugar is fully incorporated.  At this point you can serve over ice or refrigerate.  Stir again before serving.  I usually pour the lemonade into a pitcher, slowing down towards the end.  You will find a multitude of seeds, at which point I just discard.  Bon appetit!