Summer is heating up here in Colorado, and I know it’s been blazin’ hot in certain areas of the country — My family lives in the Houston area and it got up to 104F the other day! Thankfully, it’s not nearly as hot here in Denver but if you need a break from the heat, I’ve got a summer drink to help cool you down.

A few days ago, Heather over at Heather Eats Almond Butter posted a delicious-looking recipe for gluten free Blueberry Lemon Cornbread (now on my “to make list”), which inspired this beverage today. I love the combo of blueberry and lemon together in baking- in pancakes, muffins, yogurt, quick breads (and cornbread!)- so I used the two flavors to whip up an ultra-easy drink that shouldn’t even be considered a “recipe”. I know blueberry lemonade isn’t the most novel idea but give this a try if you haven’t made your own homemade rendition.

This is a stevia-sweetened version but you could use honey, agave or real sugar if you prefer. For a flavor variation, substitute strawberries, raspberries or blackberries (or a combo) to switch things up a bit. You could add fresh herbs such as basil for a more sophisticated drink, or spike it with some vodka if you want an “adult beverage”. I just love recipes that are so flexible!

Sugar Free Blueberry Lemonade

Ingredients

2/3 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3-4 lemons, depending on their size)
3 cups fresh blueberries, or berries of your choice
4 cups water
Stevia (or other sweetener or choice) to taste, I used two packets of NuNaturals Stevia
Ice for serving
Extra berries for serving
Extra lemon slices for garnish

Directions

1. In a blender, add lemon juice, blueberries, water and stevia. Blend for 5 to 10 seconds.
2. Place a mesh wire strainer over a pitcher and pour blended mixture over to strain solids and pulp.
3. Either chill in fridge for serving later OR serve immediately by adding ice, extra berries and lemon slices to glasses, pour lemonade and enjoy!