FRESH CHERRY LEMONADE

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 0 minutes | Serves: 4

I remember sipping on this refreshing drink during lazy summer afternoons at my grandmother’s house, her laughter mixing with the sweet scent of cherries wafting through the air. It’s a little taste of nostalgia that always makes me smile!

 YOU’LL NEED

• 2 cups fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish
• Lemon slices for garnish

 HOW TO MAKE IT

1. In a blender, combine the pitted cherries and sugar. Blend until smooth.
2. Strain the cherry puree through a fine mesh sieve into a pitcher, pressing to extract as much juice as possible.
3. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the cherry juice in the pitcher.
4. Pour in the cold water and stir well to combine.
5. Taste and adjust the sweetness if needed.
6. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh mint leaves and lemon slices.

TIP: For a sparkling twist, add a splash of club soda just before serving!