Freshly Squeezed Mint Lemonade
Freshly Squeezed Mint Lemonade
Between lemonade and mojitos, summertime is officially served in my opinion! Trying to combine the two into a deliciously refreshing beverage for all ages to enjoy was the inspiration for this recipe. It’s a huge hit during the hot summer months and a staple at every warm-weathered get together at my house. Plus, it’s a great way to use the abundance of mint that grows like wildflowers at my home.
Yield: 2 cups lemon-mint simple syrup (8, 8-ounce servings)
Oven: N/A
Preparation time: 5 minutes + 20 minutes to steep
Cook Time: 5 minutes
1 cup water, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves
1 cup lemon juice, juice from 5 – 6 lemons
sparkling water, as desired
mint leaves (optional garnish), as desired
Method:
1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add water and sugar. Allow to cook while whisking until sugar has dissolved, approximately 2 – 3 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and add mint leaves. Allow to steep off heat for 10 minutes.
3. Strain reserving mint simple syrup and discarding mint leaves.
4. Combine lemon juice with simple syrup and stir.
5. To serve, fill each glass with ice, 2 tablespoons lemon-mint simple syrup and sparkling water to finish. Adjust sweetness with more simple syrup if desired.
6. Garnish with a mint leaf and “fancy” straw right before serving.
Kitchen Note: The lemon simple syrup yields 2 cups so consider saving some to toss with fresh berries as a simple dessert or as a sweetener for iced tea. Mint can be replaced with rosemary, thyme, or even basil for a little variation.