1cupfresh mint leavesplus extra sprigs for garnish
0.75cupgranulated sugarfor the mint syrup
0.75cupwaterfor the syrup
3cupcold water
2cupice cubes
0.5cuplemon slicesfor serving (optional)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Make the mint syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 0.75 cup sugar and 0.75 cup water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Remove from heat, stir in 1.0 cup mint leaves, cover, and steep for 10 minutes. Strain out the mint and let the syrup cool.
Juice lemons to get 1.0 cup fresh lemon juice; strain out seeds and excess pulp if desired.
In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, all of the cooled mint syrup, and 3.0 cups cold water. Stir well and adjust to taste with a little more water if you prefer it less sweet.
Add ice to glasses, pour the mint lemonade, and garnish with lemon slices and extra mint sprigs. Serve chilled.
Notes
For sparkling mint lemonade, replace 1.0 cup of the cold water with chilled club soda just before serving. Make-ahead tip: store the mint syrup and lemon juice separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.