mint sprigs and strawberry halves,for garnish (optional)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, bring the water and sugar to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Add the lemon zest and juice, stir and remove from heat. Let cool completely.
In a blender, puree the strawberries with about 1/2 cup of the lemon syrup. Add the pureed strawberries to the remaining lemon syrup. Stir; pour through a strainer into a pitcher. Refrigerate until well-chilled.
When ready to serve, add sparkling water to the pitcher and stir well. Pour over glasses filled with ice, and serve garnished with mint and/or strawberry halves.