Easy Strawberry Lemonade (with Roasted Strawberries)

In a small saucepan, combine 3/4 cup water and 3/4 cup granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool completely to room temperature.

Place the 2 cups of sliced strawberries onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Toss gently to coat.

Arrange the strawberries in a single layer. Roast for 10-20 minutes, or until the strawberries are soft, bubbly, and slightly caramelized.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Transfer the roasted strawberries (and any juices from the pan) to a bowl. Mash them with a fork for a slightly chunky texture, or transfer them to a food processor or blender and process/blend until smooth for a smoother lemonade. Let the puree cool completely.

In a large pitcher, combine the cooled simple syrup, the cooled roasted strawberry puree, and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well.

Pour in the 6 cups of cold water or sparkling water and stir well to combine.

Add ice cubes and the 1 cup of fresh strawberry slices to the pitcher. Stir gently. Pour the strawberry lemonade into glasses over more ice cubes, if desired. Garnish individual glasses with extra strawberry slices. Serve immediately.