There’s something about the current climate that has me aching for something fresh and springy. Sure, while your average girl might crave a peppermint mocha or gingerbread latte from the local coffee establishment when the weather dips below 40°, I’m that weirdo who’s still ordering an iced green tea in the dead of winter.
I ordered this lemonade at The General Muir when I was particularly longing for the warm, 68° Los Angeles winter that my family is experiencing right now. This drink was everything I wanted and then some. It’s refreshing, tangy and light. Despite the fact that the mint is mixed straight into the glass, the herb isn’t overwhelming; it’s just right.
I’ve recreated this libation to perfection, so I, and you, can enjoy it during any weather. Sip it while you study, sip it while you don’t, either way, you’ll love it. The only way I can think of improving it is by drinking it outside in 80° weather, but we’re about 6 months away from that, so I’ll take what I can get.
Photo by Yonatan Soler
Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes
Total Time: 15 Minutes
Servings: About sixteen 8 oz. servings
Ingredients:
Mint Lemonade Concentrate:
3-5 fresh lemons or ½ cup fresh lemon juice
1 ½ cups filtered water
1-2 tablespoons agave nectar
1 small handful mint leaves (above 10 leaves)
4 tablespoons water
Photo by Yonatan Soler
Mint Lemonade Soda:
5 ounces sparkling water
3 ounces mint lemonade concentrate
Ice
Directions:
1. Juice 3-5 lemons until you have ½ cup fresh lemon juice. Meyer lemons are preferable if they’re available.
Photo by Yonatan Soler
2. Mix lemon juice with 1 ½ cups filtered water and 1-2 tablespoons agave nectar or simple syrup (or to taste).
3. In a blender, combine 1 small handful mint leaves with 4 tablespoons water until smooth.
Photo by Yonatan Soler
4. Refrigerate in a jar for 4 hours and strain out if desired. Combine with lemon juice mixture and mix well. Refrigerate until ready to serve in a closed container.
Photo by Yonatan Soler
5. When ready to serve, fill a tall glass with ice and add 5 oz. sparkling water and 3 oz. mint lemonade concentrate.
Photo by Yonatan Soler
6. Garnish with a lemon slice.
7. Serve with a bendy straw and book of choice (preferably on a beach).
Photo by Yonatan Soler