Homemade Italian Strawberry Soda
This homemade Italian-style strawberry soda is the perfect drink to cool you down. Unlike store-bought sodas loaded with artificial flavors and too much sugar, this version is made with fresh strawberries, a simple homemade syrup, and fizzy water. The result? A refreshing and naturally delicious drink!
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Blender or potato masher
- Glass jars or bottles
- Tall glasses
- Ice cube tray
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Syrup:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries hulled and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar adjust to taste
- ¾ cup water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice for a little tang and freshness
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, but adds depth to the flavor
For the Soda:
- 1 cup club soda or sparkling water chilled
- Ice cubes as needed
- Fresh mint or sliced strawberries for garnish optional
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Strawberry Syrup
- Cook the strawberries: In a small saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and water. Place it over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to help dissolve the sugar.
- Mash and simmer: Once the strawberries soften (about 5–7 minutes), use a spoon or potato masher to break them down, releasing more juice and flavor. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add lemon juice and vanilla: Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract, then remove the saucepan from heat.
- Strain the syrup: Pour the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar or bottle. Use a spoon to press out as much liquid as possible. Discard the leftover pulp or save it for smoothies.
- Cool and store: Let the syrup cool completely before using. Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Step 2: Assemble the Strawberry Soda
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Add 3–4 tablespoons of strawberry syrup (or more if you like a stronger flavor).
- Top with chilled club soda or sparkling water.
- Stir gently and taste. Adjust the syrup or soda as needed.
- Garnish with fresh strawberries or mint leaves, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving - Approximate)
- Calories: ~80–100 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~22g
- Sugar: ~18g
- Protein: ~0.5g
- Fat: ~0g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Vitamin C: ~30% of the Daily Value
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.