4 to 5 lemons squeezed to make 1 cup juice
3/4 to 1 c. sugar (I use the least amount needed)
4 1/2 c. water
1 lemon, sliced
ice cubes & fresh mint for garnish
You can make this several ways:
1. Lemon syrup: Combine lemon juice & sugar and stir until sugar dissolves. Store covered in frig until ready to use. A great way to make this really fresh for a picnic without needing to do all the work at the last minute.
2. By the pitcher: Just combine all ingredients and chill. Serve with ice & mint in individual glasses
3. By the glass: Measure 3 Tbs. lemon syrup into 10- or 12-oz. glass. Add ice & water and stir to mix.
4. Spritzer: Use "by the glass" method and add chilled club soda or sparkling water.
You can also add some fresh squeezed orange or lime juice too for a little twist on this classic.
This was always a fun project in the summertime when Krissy & Renee were home from school. They both loved to use the old-fashioned lemon juicer that belonged to my mom to squeeze the lemons. It was the same juicer I used when I was a little girl and I can remember how much fun I had playing with it too! As luck would have it, I bought an identical juicer at a public auction some time ago so both of my girls will have one to "play" with with my grandchildren :-)