Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 large lemons)
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 cups (480 ml) water (to dilute)
  • 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
  • 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
  • Lemon slices (1-2 lemons for slicing)
  • Extra mint or basil sprigs

Instructions:

  1. Cut the lemons in half and use a juicer to extract the juice.
  2. Strain the juice through a fine-mesh strainer into a mixing bowl to remove seeds and pulp, if desired.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar with 1/2 cup (120 ml) water.
  4. Heat over medium until sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and let cool.
  5. In a pitcher, combine the cooled lemon juice, simple syrup, and the remaining water.
  6. Tear the mint and basil leaves, add them to the pitcher, and stir gently to release their flavors.
  7. Chill the drink in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  8. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and extra herbs.