Happy Fourth of July everyone!  This red strawberry soda is the perfect easy cooler for today’s celebrations.  If you’re anything like John and I, some vodka in here would be a great adult addition to the kid’s drinks!  What a great way to enjoy the nation’s independence.

John and I had everyone over to the new place to see it for the first time a few weeks ago(since it was a big empty shell that is).  When we first planned this out, we had just went strawberry picking so this strawberry soda seemed like the perfect fit.  John and I have been wanting to try this for ages, but we’ve never found the time.  I’m glad to say it was worth the wait – although we might not be drinking anything but homemade soda EVER again!!!

Tonight we are taking in the fireworks in Boston, a tradition that we started since our first Fourth of July together.  There is something about the Pops’ traditional music, the Charles, the skyline in the background, and the fireworks that makes today magical.  Watching the celebration tonight on the banks of one of the oldest American cities, a city that I fiercely love, I am overwhelmed by how much I love being an American.  It’s a great day to remember that. 

Strawberry Soda (adapted from here)
Serves: 6 (36 ounces of strawberry soda)

Strawberry Syrup  (1 cup)
16 ounces strawberries
4 teaspoons white vinegar
1/3 cup sugar 

Strawberry Soda (6 8-ounce glasses)
1 cup strawberry syrup (above)
48 ounces of Seltzer
Ice, if desired

To make the strawberry syrup place strawberries in a blender and pulse until smooth.  Strain the strawberries into a large pot, pressing to get as much juice as possible.  Discard the pulp.  Add the vinegar and sugar to the juice.  Bring the strawberry juice to a boil.  Reduce heat to medium and let simmer for 5 minutes.  Allow to cool and store in the fridge. 

To make the strawberry soda, pour 16 ounces of seltzer into a pitcher.  Add strawberry syrup and stir until combined.  Top with remaining seltzer and stir.  Top with ice, before serving, if desired.

Nutrition per Serving, Based on 6 Servings, from MyFitnessPal.com
Calories:  78
Fat:  0g
Carbohydrates:  19g
Sodium:  1mg
Sugars:  16g
Protein:  1g

Until the next time my oven is on...