Ingredients:
– 6-8 fresh lemons
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 5 cups cold water
– Ice cubes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Steps:
1. **Prepare the Lemons**: Roll the lemons on the counter to soften them, then cut them in half and juice them. You should get about 1 cup of lemon juice.
2. **Make the Simple Syrup**: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cool.
3. **Mix the Lemonade**: In a large pitcher, combine the lemon juice, simple syrup, and the remaining 4 cups of cold water. Stir well.
4. **Add Ice and Garnish**: Fill the pitcher with ice cubes and add a few slices of lemon and fresh mint leaves for garnish.
5. **Serve**: Pour the lemonade into glasses, add more ice if desired, and garnish with additional lemon slices and mint leaves.
Enjoy your refreshing homemade lemonade! 
