• Gather your ingredients so that you have everything close at hand on the counter or table.

Prepare the Ingredients

• Using a fine-edged grater, zest 1 tablespoon lemon zest. Squeeze 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice(approximately 4-6 lemons).
• Wash and drain 1 pint fresh raspberries.

Make the Simple Syrup

• Prepare a simple syrup by placing 1 cup water, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup raspberries, 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, and lemon zest in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
• Bring to a boil and stir until sugar has dissolved.
• Using a wooden spoon or muddler, gently press down on the fresh mint and twist, to release even more minty flavor.
• Remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Lemonade

• Strain the cooled simple syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a 2 quart pitcher. Discard the raspberries, lemon zest, and mint leaves.
• Add the lemon juice to the pitcher. Using a long-handled wooden spoon, stir to mix. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
• When ready to serve, pour 3-4 cups sparkling water into the pitcher, depending on how strong you want your lemonade. Stir to mix and taste.
• Serve in tall glasses over ice. Garnish with sliced lemon, fresh mint, and/or fresh raspberries.
• This recipe makes about 6 cups of lemonade and will serve 4-6 people.