Strawberry Dirty Sprite Drink (Printer-Friendly Version)
Strawberries, lemon-lime soda, vodka, and coconut rum create a vibrant, refreshing summer pitcher.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Main Components
01 -
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
02 -
1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 -
1/2 cup fresh mint leaves
04 -
1 cup vodka
05 -
1/4 cup coconut rum
06 -
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
07 -
2 liters lemon-lime soda, chilled
08 -
ice cubes, as needed
→ Garnishes and Optional Additions
09 -
lemon, thinly sliced, for garnish
10 -
whole fresh strawberries, for garnish
11 -
fresh mint sprigs, for garnish
12 -
purple food coloring, optional, for color
13 -
splash of grenadine, optional, for additional sweetness
14 -
Jolly Rancher candies, optional, for novelty
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Combine sliced strawberries with sugar in a bowl and let sit for 15 minutes until the berries release their juices.
02 -
In a large pitcher, gently muddle the sugared strawberries with fresh mint leaves using a muddler or wooden spoon to release the flavors without over-mashing.
03 -
Pour in vodka, coconut rum, and fresh lemon juice, stirring to combine and help dissolve the sugar.
04 -
Slowly add the chilled lemon-lime soda to the pitcher, stirring gently to retain carbonation.
05 -
If desired, blend in a drop or two of purple food coloring for a vibrant hue and a splash of grenadine or a few Jolly Rancher candies for added sweetness.
06 -
Fill the pitcher with ice cubes and top with additional fresh mint, sliced lemon, and whole strawberries.
07 -
Pour the drink into tall glasses over ice, scooping up fruit and mint from the bottom. Garnish each glass with a whole berry and lemon wedge.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Chill soda thoroughly before use to maximize fizz and freshness.
02 -
Prepare the strawberry-mint base up to 24 hours in advance; add soda and ice just before serving.
03 -
Customize sweetness and color with grenadine, food coloring, or novelty candies as preferred.