Ingredients:

  • 1 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 cup hot water (for dissolving syrup)
  • 2 teaspoons lime zest (from 2 large limes)
  • 1 cup fresh lime juice
  • 4 cups cold water or chilled soda water (or to taste)
  • Thin lime slices or wheels (optional, for serving)
  • Ice cubes (as needed)

Instructions:

  1. Create the Zest-Infused Simple Syrup: Zest two large limes, avoiding the bitter white pith. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, hot water, and lime zest. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved (about 3–4 minutes).
  2. Infuse and Strain: Remove the syrup from the heat and allow the zest to steep for 10 minutes. Pour the simple syrup through a fine-mesh sieve directly into your large pitcher, discarding the spent lime zest. Let the syrup cool slightly.
  3. Extract the Juice: Halve all remaining limes and use a juicer to extract 1 cup (240ml) of fresh lime juice. Optionally, strain the juice into the pitcher to remove any pulp.
  4. Combine and Dilute: Pour the measured fresh lime juice into the pitcher containing the simple syrup. Stir well to combine. Add the 4 cups of cold water or soda water and stir thoroughly.
  5. Taste and Chill: Taste the limeade and adjust sweetness or tartness as required. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 60 minutes for optimal flavor and temperature.
  6. Serve: Give the pitcher a final vigorous stir. Serve the finished limeade over plenty of ice, garnished with a thin lime wheel or a sprig of mint.