### Raspberry Lemonade Slushie Recipe

**Description:**
This refreshing Raspberry Lemonade Slushie is the perfect summer treat! Bursting with the vibrant flavors of fresh raspberries and zesty lemon, this icy drink is easy to make and sure to impress. Ideal for hot days, it’s a delightful way to cool down and enjoy the sweetness of summer.

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**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups fresh raspberries (or frozen if out of season)
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 cups cold water
– 2 cups ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
– Additional raspberries and lemon slices for garnish (optional)

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**Instructions:**

**1. Preparing the Raspberry Lemonade Base:**
– In a blender, add the 2 cups of fresh raspberries. If using frozen raspberries, add them directly without thawing.
– Squeeze the lemons to obtain 1 cup of fresh lemon juice. Roll the lemons on the countertop before cutting to maximize juice extraction. Strain the juice to remove seeds and pulp.
– Add the lemon juice to the blender with the raspberries.
– Pour in 1 cup of granulated sugar to balance the tartness.
– Add 4 cups of cold water to the blender.
– Blend on high speed until smooth, about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Ensure raspberries are pureed and sugar is dissolved.
– Taste the mixture and adjust sweetness if desired by adding more sugar and blending again.

**2. Chilling the Mixture:**
– Pour the raspberry lemonade mixture into a large pitcher or bowl.
– Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill and meld flavors.

**3. Preparing the Slushie:**
– Remove the chilled raspberry lemonade mixture from the refrigerator and stir well.
– In a blender, add 2 cups of ice cubes (adjust for desired slushiness).
– Pour about 2 cups of the raspberry lemonade mixture over the ice in the blender (do this in batches if necessary).
– Blend on high speed until the ice is crushed and the mixture is slushy, about 30 seconds. Add more raspberry lemonade mixture if too thick.
– Pour the slushie into tall glasses for a beautiful presentation.

**4. Garnishing and Serving:**
– Garnish each glass with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
– Add extra raspberries on top and lemon slices to the rim for an attractive finish.
– Serve immediately with a straw or spoon, using colorful straws for a festive touch.

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**Storing Leftovers:**
If you have any leftover slushie, store it in the freezer. Note that it may lose its slushy texture once frozen.

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**Notes:**
– For a sweeter slushie, adjust the sugar to your taste.
– Feel free to experiment with other fruits for different flavor combinations.

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**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 1 hour (chilling time)
**Total Time:** 1 hour 15 minutes
**Yield:** Approximately 4 servings