Mixed Berry Lemonade Slushie

Ingredients

• id: fresh_lemons metric: 4 large imperial: 4 large name: fresh lemons, juiced (about 120ml/1/2 cup juice)

• id: granulated_sugar metric: 100g imperial: 1/2 cup name: granulated sugar

• id: water metric: 240ml imperial: 1 cup name: water

• id: mixed_berries metric: 300g imperial: 2 cups name: mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)

• id: ice_cubes metric: 500g imperial: 4 cups name: ice cubes

• id: cold_water metric: 240ml imperial: 1 cup name: cold water

• id: honey metric: 30ml imperial: 2 tbsp name: honey (optional, for extra sweetness)

• id: fresh_mint metric: 8 sprigs imperial: 8 sprigs name: fresh mint sprigs, for garnish

• id: extra_berries metric: 60g imperial: 1/2 cup name: extra berries, for garnish

• id: lemon_slices metric: 1 lemon imperial: 1 lemon name: lemon slices, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, combine {granulated_sugar} and {water}. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar completely dissolves to create a simple syrup. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

2. Hull strawberries if using and roughly chop larger {mixed_berries}. In a blender, combine the berries with 30ml (2 tablespoons) of the cooled simple syrup. Blend until smooth.

3. Strain the berry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the seeds and pulp. This creates a smooth berry syrup.

4. In the same blender (no need to clean), combine {fresh_lemons} juice, remaining simple syrup, berry syrup, {cold_water}, and {honey} if using for extra sweetness.

5. Add {ice_cubes} to the blender and blend on high speed until the mixture reaches a slushie consistency - thick but pourable. You may need to stop and scrape down sides occasionally.

6. Taste and adjust sweetness by adding more honey or simple syrup if needed. The mixture should be tart but balanced.

7. Pour into chilled glasses and garnish with {fresh_mint} sprigs, {extra_berries}, and {lemon_slices}. Serve immediately with wide straws.

Tips

Berry Preparation: Use a mix of berries for complex flavor - strawberries add sweetness, raspberries provide tartness, and blueberries contribute color and mild flavor.

Frozen Berry Option: Frozen berries work well and actually help create a thicker slushie consistency. Use them straight from the freezer without thawing.

Sweetness Balance: Start with less sweetener and add more to taste. The natural sweetness of berries varies, so adjust accordingly.

Texture Control: For a smoother slushie, blend longer. For more texture with berry pieces, pulse briefly instead of blending continuously.

Make-Ahead Tip: The berry syrup and simple syrup can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Serving Suggestions: These are perfect for pool parties, summer barbecues, or as a refreshing afternoon treat. Try adding a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy version.