Typically when we go to Dolores Park on a sunny day, everyone brings a bottle (or two, or three) of wine. However, since this picnic is a plan-ahead event — rather than the normal impromptu affair — I'm making a special drink. Fresh-squeezed lemonade comes to mind when I hear the word picnic and this blushing pink version is prefect because it's spiked with vodka and sour cherries. It's a refreshing concoction that screams Summer. If you prefer not to imbibe alcohol, simply omit the vodka and enjoy the cherry lemonade on its own.

To check out the recipe, please read more.

Fizzy Sour Cherry Lemonade
From Gourmet
Fizzy Sour Cherry Lemonade

Ingredients

2 lb fresh or thawed frozen sour cherries (1 qt), stemmed and pitted
1 cup fresh lemon juice
3/4 to 1 cup sugar
1 1/2 cups vodka (optional)
2 to 3 cups chilled sparkling water
fresh sour cherries with stems, garnish

Directions

  1. Blend cherries in a blender at low speed until skins have broken down enough to brightly color liquid.
  2. Pour through a sieve into a 2-quart pitcher, pressing on and discarding solids. Add lemon juice and sugar (to taste), stirring until sugar is dissolved.
  3. Pour 3 tablespoons vodka (if using) into each of 8 tall (10-ounce) glasses filled with ice. Add 1/2 cup cherry lemonade to each and top off with sparkling water.

Serves 8.

Make ahead: Sour cherry lemonade can be made 1 day ahead and chilled, covered.

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