It has been very hot here lately.
I’m not complaining — I enjoy the particular atmosphere a heatwave creates: blazing sun, closed shutters, quiet afternoons and glistening faces. Heat like this is rare in Paris, so I welcome the change.
And it’s the perfect excuse to wear tank tops and strappy sandals.
To stay hydrated, I’ve been making batch after batch of this no-sugar, mint-infused lemonade (citronnade à la menthe). It’s incredibly simple — who has energy for anything elaborate in this weather? — and wonderfully refreshing over plenty of ice.
Have you tried this? Share your pics on Instagram!
Please tag your pictures with #cnzrecipes. I’ll share my favorites!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Makes 2 liters (2 quarts).
Ingredients
- 2 organic lemons
- 2 liters (2 quarts) fresh water (preferably filtered)
- 12 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Make your way into the kitchen and get comfortable.
- If you have the energy, grate the zest of one lemon; it brightens the flavor, but it’s optional.
- Cut the lemons in half and juice them. Add the juice and any zest to a 2-liter (2-quart) jug, then pour in the water.
- Rinse the mint leaves and add them to the jug.
- Stir gently with a long spoon to combine.
- Cover the jug and rest it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours to let the flavors meld.
- When you’re ready to serve, add ice cubes to a glass, stir the lemonade again, and pour.
- If a mint leaf lands in your glass, leave it as a pretty garnish.
- Enjoy the cooling drink, and keep the jug chilled in the fridge for refills.
Notes
Repeat as often as needed to stay refreshed.
https://cnz.to/recipes/drinks/mint-lemonade-recipe/
This post was first published in August 2004 and updated in July 2016.