1 12-ounce bag unsweetened frozen mixed berries, thawed

1 12-ounce can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed

1 cup vanilla simple syrup

3 cups water

Ice

Vanilla Simple Syrup:

1/2 cup sugar

1 cup water

1 vanilla bean, cut in half lengthwise, seeds removed, pod reserved

In a blender, combine the berries, lemonade concentrate and syrup. Blend until smooth.

Pour the mixture into a large pitcher. Add the water and stir, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Pour the lemonade into ice-filled glasses and serve.

To make Vanilla Simple Syrup:

In a small saucepan, over medium heat combine the sugar, water, vanilla bean seeds, and vanilla pod. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool, about 20 minutes. Strain before using.

Notes:

The blended mixture can be strained through a fine mesh sieve to remove the berry seeds, if preferred.

Recipe courtesy of Giada De Laurentiis