This refreshing drink is the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and fragrant flavors. Rhubarb adds a tangy brightness, strawberries bring natural sweetness, ginger provides a subtle warmth, and vanilla gives a hint of depth. Fresh lime juice and mint lift everything into a truly revitalizing beverage that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Ideal for spring and summer gatherings, this ruby-hued limeade is a crowd-pleaser that looks stunning in a glass pitcher garnished with fruit and herbs.
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups rhubarb, cut into 3/4-inch pieces (about 1 lb.)
2 cups strawberries, halved
3-inch piece ginger root, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
1 cup sugar (or sweetener of your choice)
1 vanilla pod, split lengthwise
4 cups fresh drinking water
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
20 mint leaves
Garnish: Additional strawberries, fresh mint leaves, and lime slices
METHOD:
In a large saucepan, combine rhubarb, strawberries, ginger, sugar, vanilla pod, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the lime juice and mint leaves. Continue simmering for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and flavors meld.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to lukewarm.
Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a heatproof container or large pitcher, pressing gently to extract the juices. Discard solids.
Refrigerate until well chilled.
To serve, pour over ice and garnish with strawberries, mint sprigs, and lime slices.
YIELD: 8 servings
VARIATION: Sparkling Strawberry Rhubarb Limeade
For a fizzy twist, transform the original recipe into a sparkling refresher. The gentle bubbles make it feel festive—ideal for brunches, picnics, or summer parties.
METHOD:
Prepare the recipe as written, but when you reach the chilling step, stop after straining the mixture. Refrigerate until cold.
Just before serving, fill glasses halfway with the chilled rhubarb-strawberry mixture.
Top with chilled sparkling water, club soda, or sparkling mineral water (about equal parts juice base and sparkling water).
Garnish with strawberries, lime slices, and mint sprigs. Serve immediately for the best effervescence.
Optional: For an adults-only version, add a splash of prosecco, rosé, or vodka before topping with sparkling water.
