Make a simple syrup by combining the sugar with 1 cup water in a saucepan. Place over medium heat and heat until sugar completely dissolved, swirl the pan occasionally. Let it cool.

Once simple syrup has cooled, pure strawberries in a blender with 1/2 cup water.

In large pitcher, combine strawberry purée, simple syrup and lemon juice. If using vodka, add it to pitcher and stir to combine.

Add 4-6 cups of cold water. The amount of water you use will depend on your taste, so add as little or as much you want to achieve your perfect sweet balance.

Serve over ice. Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices.