Classic Fresh Lemonade

1Roll the lemons firmly on a countertop to soften them and make juicing easier.

2Cut the lemons in half and juice them using a manual or electric juicer until you have about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice, removing seeds.

3In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar (1 cup) and 1 cup of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved to make simple syrup. Remove from heat and let cool.

4In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and the cooled simple syrup.

5Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water (5 cups) to the pitcher and stir well to combine.

6Taste the lemonade and adjust sweetness or tartness by adding more water or lemon juice if desired.

7Refrigerate the lemonade for at least 30 minutes to chill and allow flavors to meld, or serve immediately over ice cubes if preferred.

8Before serving, stir the lemonade well. Pour into glasses and garnish with lemon slices and fresh mint leaves if desired.