Fizzy Cherry Lemonade Cooler

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You'll love this bubbly and tart lemonade, which is the perfect partner for your summer barbecues! And, you won't believe what I used to give the lemonade it's cherry flavor and bright color! 

After being with my husband for almost 12 years now, he can still surprise me. This past weekend, he was itching for a project.  Our backyard grilling area has always been a bit disorganized, with no easy place to store charcoal or grilling tools. We also didn't have anywhere to rest food or basting sauce, which meant those things often ended up on a lawn chair or the ground. First world problems, for sure, but the hubs thought he could do something about it. 

He began searching for grilling tables and storage, drew up plans, and hit the hardware store. 12 hours later, we had this beauty. I was amazed as I watched him expertly cut the boards and construct this rather large table. He even painted it to match the trim of our house! Love!

While he was finishing up the final touches, I headed off to Walmart to get some ingredients for dinner. We were ready to test out the new grilling table! I picked up some quick ingredients for brats and coleslaw. My husband had a lemonade craving, probably from working out in the heat all day.

I picked up some Country Time Lemonade mix (his favorite), fresh fruit, and some mix-ins. I really wanted to make a cherry lemonade, but I was unsure how to best get that great cherry flavor and color.  I picked up some cherry juice, grenadine, fresh cherries and lemons, and as I was leaving I walked by the Jell-O and decided to pick up some cherry Jell-O as well and give it a shot! 

We tested several cherry additions to the lemonade, and Jell-O was by far the favorite! Adding just a pinch gives it the perfect flavor and color without changing the texture of the drink at all! This drink is the perfect accompaniment to a grilled meal on a hot day. It's refreshing, tart, and sweet. Kids and adults alike will love this kicked up version of lemonade, and they will never believe what gives it it's perfect cherry flavor! 

Making this drink livened up a very simple grilled meal for us!

Don't forget that fun drinks and desserts can really make grilling fun. For more grilling recipes, check out Kraft's free digital cookbook or visit Kraft's website for great recipes! I'd love to hear which one is your favorite!