A little sweet, and a little sour... this recipe is one of my warm weather favorites. It's the perfect way to cool down on any warm day. My husband, Lonnie, likes to 'modify' this recipe by adding a shot of vodka. No matter how you prepare it, this refreshing drink is the perfect way to enjoy a warm day.

Santa Barbara Mint Lemonade

Makes 1 full pitcher, about 6 glasses.

What You Need

• - 2 large lemons
• - Juice from 2 lemons
• - 30 mint leaves (preferably fresh)
• - 4 cups of cold water
• - 2 cups of ice
• - 1/4 cup of granulated sugar

Directions

• Cut 2 lemons into small slices. Keep the skin on, but remove the seeds.
• Combine the lemons, lemon juice, mint leaves, water, ice, and sugar in a blender.
• Blend ingredients together until all of the lemon pieces are pureed (approximately 3 minutes).
• Empty the blender with a mesh strainer.
• Pour the lemonade into a serving pitcher.
• Discard the pulp.
• Add ice and serve with additional mint garnish.

Keep in mind that the proportions may vary depending on how sweet you like your lemonade, as well as how sour your lemons are. Early season lemons are more sour than late season lemons.