Fruity, refreshing drinks in the summer just really can’t be beat, right? There’s something about enjoying an ice cold drink, full of fresh, in-season fruit on an unbelievably hot day. It’s just one of the best parts of summer. Preferably accompanied by a book and a hammock. But an indoor hammock, because I much prefer the air conditioned indoors to the overwhelming heat of the outdoors.

This blackberry lemonade is totally my new favorite summer drink. It’s just sweet enough and just tart enough, and really the perfect color. Blackberries are in season right now too, so they taste extra awesome. Make this drink soon!

Printable Recipe
Makes about 1 1/2 quarts

ingredients:
4 cups water, divided
1 cup sugar
3/4 cup lemon juice
1 tbsp grated lemon zest
1 cup blackberries

instructions:
Bring 2 cups water and the sugar to a boil in a medium saucepan. Boil for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and remaining 2 cups water.

In a blender, process the blackberries with 1 cup of the lemon mixture until smooth. You can strain the seeds if desired, or leave them in. I left them in, but it’s all preference!

Add the blackberry mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining lemon mixture and stir together. Pour the drink into a pitcher and chill before serving. Enjoy!

Adapted from Best of Taste of Home 2009 Special Collector’s Edition