Strawberry Mint Lemonade

1. 1

   In a medium sauce pan, combine 2 cups of the water and the sugar. Heat over medium-high heat until sugar completely dissolves, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set simple syrup aside to cool.

2. 2

   Heat frozen strawberries in the microwave until thawed, approximately 30-45 seconds. Once thawed, muddle (mush) strawberries until they are all mushed and you have made a thick strawberry paste, about 2/3 to 1 cup in volume. If you like larger chunks of fruit, don't mush the strawberries as much.

3. 3

   In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice, strawberries, and remaining 5 cups water. Stir to combine. Add about half of the simple syrup into the mixture and stir to combine. Continue to add the simple syrup, 1/4 cup at a time, until lemonade reaches your desired level of sweetness. I tend to use most of my simple syrup, but it really depends on the lemons and the strawberries.

4. 4

   Add fresh mint leaves and stir again. If possible, place lemonade mixture in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If you can wait this time, you will be rewarded. If not, it will still be super tasty, just not as minty.

5. 5

   Serve cold. If you somehow don't finish the lemonade and want to store it for the next day, I recommend removing the mint leaves, as they will wilt after a while.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.