Shellfish Free Fresh Vanilla Berry Lemonade
This is the kind of drink that makes a whole afternoon feel like an occasion. Fresh strawberries and blueberries get muddled right in the pitcher, releasing their juice and color into a base of real-squeezed lemon juice and a homemade vanilla simple syrup made with maple syrup and a whole split vanilla bean. That syrup is the secret weapon — steeped and strained, it adds a warm, floral sweetness that no bottled lemonade can touch. The berries bring a gorgeous blush hue and a fruity depth that balances the bright tartness of the lemons beautifully. You can strain it smooth for a clear, elegant pour or leave the berry pulp in for something a little more rustic and textured — both are delicious. Served over ice with a sprig of fresh mint, it's refreshing, naturally sweetened, and completely free of anything that would raise a concern for anyone avoiding shellfish or other allergens. This is the pitcher drink you'll be making on repeat all summer long.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the vanilla simple syrup
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ½ cup water
- 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped
For the lemonade
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ½ cup fresh blueberries
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice (from about 6–7 lemons)
- 3 cups cold water
For serving
- ice, for serving
- fresh mint sprigs, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the maple syrup, 1/2 cup water, vanilla bean seeds, and the scraped pod in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the maple syrup is fully dissolved, about 2 minutes, then remove from the heat and let the syrup steep for 20 minutes.
- 2
Strain the syrup through a fine-mesh strainer into a small bowl or measuring cup, discarding the vanilla pod. Let the syrup cool to room temperature, about 10 minutes.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!