Fresh Lemonade

For the simple syrup:

Zest the lemon and set aside for a moment. Heat a saucepan on low to medium heat and add the water, sugar and the lemon zest. Bring the sugar mixture to a boil and stir. Once the sugar dissolves (about 6 minutes) remove the mixture from the pan into a bowl and let it cool.

For the lemonade:

Juice and strain the lemons. In a large pitcher, add the strained lemon juice, cooled simple syrup and water. Stir together and add the ice. Slice a lemon into about ½ inch wide slices, remove the seeds if possible, and add the slices into the pitcher and serving glasses for garnish. As an option, chill the serving glasses in the freezer. Then dip the rim of the glasses in sugar just before serving. Serve over more ice.