Getting Fresh With Limeade

Once upon a time, in a place far far away... well Long Island in the summer of 1991. There was a table of young children selling home-made lemonade on the corner. As we drove by, my aunt got the idea that we should purchase some refreshments. My mom agreed and handed me some cash. I hopped out of the car, dropped the cash in their brown box, and scuffled back to car. As we drove away, my mother looked back in the rear view mirror and saw that the little girls were ecstatic. Hopping up and down with joy and high pitched giddyness. They had struck it rich!

Turns out.. she had handed me a $20 thinking I'd ask for change. Woops?

Lemonade is just fine... but I prefer Limeade with Mint. Here's one version of a classic. This weekend, I intend on trying this one by Laylita. Another amazing spot for Minty Limeade is Al-Zaytoun Kabob & Grill. Do not be fooled by it's simple website- the food is amazing, owner's super friendly, and their version of Mint Tea is perfect.

Grated zest of one lime (about 1 tablespoon)
1 cup lime juice (6 limes)
Granulated sugar (to taste.. about 3/4 cup)
3 cups water
Several sprigs of fresh mint, chopped

This makes about 4 cups of limeade; double it up if need be!

In a small saucepan bring to a boil the sugar, one cup of water, and the lime zest. Once the sugar is dissolved, remove from heat and let cool. The amount of sugar depends on how sweet you like your limeade.
Place a strainer over a bowl and pour the sugar syrup through it, straining out the lime zest. Add the lime juice and 2 cups of water. Taste for sour/sweet balance. If too sweet, add a little more lime juice. Add the chopped of fresh mint. You can either let it sit in the limeade for a few minutes then strain, or drink with the bits of mint floating around. Serve over ice.