Some recipes instantly bring back memories, and this Strawberry Lemonade Smoothie does that for me every single time. It reminds me of warm afternoons when the sun feels strong, the windows are open, and everyone is looking for something cold and cheerful to sip on.
Lemonade has always been a favorite in our home, but turning it into a smoothie felt like a small upgrade that made it even more special. The first time I blended strawberries with fresh lemon juice, the color alone made everyone smile.
This smoothie quickly became part of our routine during spring and summer. It is the kind of recipe that feels fun and comforting at the same time.
Kids love the sweet, bright flavor, and adults appreciate how refreshing and light it feels. It tastes like a treat, but it is made with simple ingredients that feel good to serve any day of the week.
Over time, this Strawberry Lemonade Smoothie earned its place as our favorite refreshing lemonade smoothie, and it is one we come back to whenever we want something cheerful, cooling, and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This smoothie is bright, fruity, and incredibly refreshing. The strawberries add natural sweetness and a soft berry flavor, while the lemon brings a crisp, tangy taste that keeps everything balanced.
Together, they create a drink that feels like classic lemonade but smoother, creamier, and more satisfying. Every sip feels uplifting and light, especially on warm days.
Another reason this recipe is so loved is how simple it is. There is no cooking, very little prep, and everything goes straight into the blender. In just a few minutes, you have a beautiful, pink drink ready to serve.
Cleanup is quick, which makes it perfect for busy families. As a refreshing lemonade smoothie, it works well for breakfast, snacks, or a cool afternoon treat.
This recipe is also flexible and forgiving. You can adjust the sweetness, make it creamy or light, and even add extra ingredients without losing the lemonade-style flavor. It works for kids, teens, and adults, and it is easy to customize for different preferences.
Serves: 2 people
This recipe makes two generous servings, perfect for sharing. If you are serving younger kids, you can divide it into three smaller cups.
The recipe can also be doubled or tripled easily if you are making smoothies for guests or family gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries, hulled
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup cold water or coconut water
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
- 1/2 cup ice cubes (optional, for a thicker texture)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for extra brightness)
Pro Tips
- Use ripe strawberries for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Fresh lemon juice makes a big difference compared to bottled juice.
- Start with less sweetener and add more only if needed, as strawberries can be naturally sweet.
- Frozen strawberries help create a thicker, colder smoothie without much ice.
- Blend on low speed first, then increase to high for the smoothest texture.
- Serve immediately for the brightest flavor and best color.
Tools You’ll Need
- High-speed blender
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
- Citrus juicer
- Serving glasses
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is easy to adjust based on what you have at home. If you do not have coconut water, plain cold water works perfectly and keeps the flavor clean and bright.
Almond milk or oat milk can be used if you want a creamier smoothie, especially when using yogurt.
For a dairy-free version, skip the Greek yogurt or replace it with a plant-based yogurt. If you want extra fruit flavor, a small handful of raspberries or a few slices of peach blend in nicely.
You can also add a frozen banana for extra creaminess, though it will soften the lemonade flavor slightly.
To make this into a smoothie bowl, reduce the liquid and blend until thick. Pour into a bowl and top with sliced strawberries, granola, or coconut flakes for a fun and filling option.
Make Ahead Tips
This Strawberry Lemonade Smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare parts of it ahead of time to save time. One helpful option is to hull and freeze the strawberries in portioned freezer bags.
You can also juice the lemons ahead of time and store the juice in the refrigerator for up to two days.
You may also blend the smoothie fully and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Some separation may occur, which is normal.
Shake or re-blend before serving to restore the smooth texture. For longer storage, freeze the smoothie in freezer-safe jars, leaving space at the top. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for an easy refreshing lemonade smoothie the next day.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the fruit
Wash and hull the strawberries. If using fresh strawberries, chill them beforehand for the best texture. Juice the lemons and zest if using.
Step 2: Add ingredients to the blender
Add the strawberries, lemon juice, water or coconut water, Greek yogurt, sweetener, lemon zest, and ice to the blender.
Step 3: Blend until smooth
Blend on low speed for about 20 seconds, then increase to high speed. Blend for another 30 to 60 seconds, or until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Taste and adjust
Taste the smoothie and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed. Add more liquid if too thick or more ice if too thin.
Step 5: Serve immediately
Pour into glasses and serve right away while cold and fresh.
Step 6: Add optional extras
If adding extra fruit or protein powder, blend again briefly until fully combined.
Step 7: Check consistency
Check that the smoothie is smooth and pourable. Make small adjustments if needed.
Step 8: Prepare for serving
Wipe glass rims and add straws or lids if serving to kids or taking the smoothie on the go.
Step 9: Enjoy
Enjoy immediately for the best flavor and refreshing experience.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with toast or muffins for a light breakfast
- Pair with eggs or yogurt for a balanced meal
- Enjoy after outdoor play or activities
- Pour into insulated cups for travel
- Serve as a cool afternoon snack
- Offer as a light and refreshing dessert
Leftovers and Storage
If you have leftover smoothie, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Separation is normal, especially with citrus. Shake or stir well before drinking.
For longer storage, freeze the smoothie in freezer-safe jars or ice cube trays. Frozen smoothie cubes can be blended again with a splash of liquid or enjoyed as a slushy-style treat. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition and Benefits
- Strawberries provide vitamin C and antioxidants
- Lemon adds brightness and supports hydration
- Greek yogurt adds protein and calcium when included
- Naturally low in fat and easy to digest
- Made with whole fruits and simple ingredients
Recipe FAQ
Can I make this smoothie without yogurt?
Yes, you can skip the yogurt completely. The smoothie will be lighter and more like a frozen lemonade drink. It will still be refreshing and flavorful. Plant-based yogurt also works if you want creaminess without dairy.
Is this smoothie good for kids?
Yes, it is very kid-friendly. The sweet strawberry flavor balances the lemon nicely. You can reduce the lemon juice slightly if your child prefers a milder taste.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work very well and help create a thicker, colder smoothie. If using frozen fruit, you may need less ice.
How do I make it sweeter?
Taste the smoothie first. If needed, add honey or maple syrup a little at a time and blend again. Ripe strawberries often provide enough sweetness on their own.
Can I make this smoothie ahead of time?
Yes, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to one day. Shake or re-blend before serving. Fresh is best, but this works well for busy days.
Is this good as a breakfast smoothie?
Yes, especially if you add yogurt or protein powder. Pair it with toast or eggs for a more filling breakfast.
What liquid works best?
Water keeps the lemonade flavor bright and clean. Coconut water adds mild sweetness. Milk or plant-based milk adds creaminess but softens the lemon flavor slightly.
A Bright and Cheerful Summer Sip
This Strawberry Lemonade Smoothie is light, cheerful, and full of fresh flavor. It is easy enough for everyday life and special enough to feel like a treat.
Whether you enjoy it in the morning, on a warm afternoon, or as a fun family drink, it brings a little brightness to the day.
This refreshing lemonade smoothie is a simple way to enjoy classic flavors in a fresh and comforting way.