Zesty and fresh, this minty limeade is the perfect refreshing drink for a hot summer afternoon. A simple syrup is made using equal parts water and sugar. You’ll heat the ingredients on the stove-top just until the sugar dissolves. A simple syrup can be made up to a couple of weeks ahead and stored in the refrigerator. With an herb-based simple syrup, store it for up to one week. Consider using your syrup as a sweeter for ice tea, lemonade, fruit drinks or cocktails. Try a variety of herbs too, like rosemary, thyme or basil.

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup loosely packed mint leaves, (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (about 6 limes) – citrus fruits yields more juice if stored at room temperature. Microwave the lime for 10 seconds before juicing,  if you’ve stored it in the refrigerator.
• Ice
• 4-6 cups chilled sparkling water
• Optional- alcohol of your choice

Make the simple syrup by combining the sugar, water and mint in a small saucepan. Bring the  mixture to a boil and let it simmer for only two minutes. This allows the sugar to dissolve. Remove it from the heat and let it cool and then remove the mint leaves. To make the limeade, add about 1 ounce of the mint syrup to a tall glass filled with ice. Add about 6 ounces of sparkling water and alcohol if you’re using it. Stir and garnish with fresh mint and/or lime slices.

Inspiration: Food52