Step by step

Method

4 steps

1. 1

   In a large pitcher, stir 2 cups cold water, 1½ cups fresh lemon juice (from about 8–10 lemons), and ¾–1 cup granulated sugar until the sugar fully dissolves — no grit on the bottom, about 1–2 minutes of stirring. Taste the base; it should be a little stronger and sweeter than you want the finished drink, because the sparkling water will dilute it.

2. 2

   Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 30 minutes.

3. 3

   Just before serving, slowly pour in 4 cups cold sparkling water or club soda down the side of the pitcher. Stir once, gently, so you keep the bubbles.

4. 4

   Serve over ice with lemon slices and mint if you like. Leftover base (without the sparkling water) keeps refrigerated up to 2 days — add the fizz when you pour. You want a cold, fizzy lemonade that tastes tart-sweet and bright — not a flat lemon soda or a syrup so sweet it hides the lemon.