Strawberry Simple Syrup

Cup of Yum
1. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, water, and strawberries. Heat over medium-high heat until simmering, stirring occasionally. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until the berries are soft and pale in color.
2. Remove from heat and strain out the berries through a fine-mesh sieve, being careful to not press the berries through but rather let the syrup strain out on its own. Discard the berry remnants.

Lemonade

1. Meanwhile, juice the lemons until you've reached 2 cups. Transfer the juice to a large pitcher and stir in the strawberry syrup. Add water and taste test; add more water if needed, depending on your desired tartness level. Once added, the ice will melt and further dilute the lemonade.
2. If you're planning on making single-serving cocktails, store the lemonade in the fridge and enjoy it within 4 days.

Single Serving Cocktail

1. Fill lowball glass(es) with ice and pour 2 ounces of vodka into each glass. Then, top each cocktail with 4 ounces of strawberry lemonade, stirring to combine. Garnish as desired.

Pitcher

1. Add 3 ¼ cups vodka to the pitcher of prepared lemonade and stir to combine.
2. If serving immediately, add ice to the pitcher. If serving later, store the lemonade in the fridge without the ice. Then add ice to individual glasses and/or the pitcher before serving.
3. Garnish with fresh lemon slices or wedges, strawberries, and fresh mint as desired. Enjoy!