Is the heat getting to you? Fed up with having to quench your thirst with the colas or bottled juices? Here a recipe for a delicious lemonade that is just right for the hot days.

You will need

1 1/2 cups sugar

2 1/2 cups water

1 cup fresh mint leaves

Juice of 2 oranges

Juice of 6 lemons

4 teaspoons grated orange peel

Fresh orange or lemon slices and sprigs of mint for garnish

Directions

• Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan; bring to a boil and boil for five minutes.

• Remove from heat; cool slightly.

• Place mint leaves in a small bowl; add sugar syrup, orange juice, lemon juice, and grated orange peel.

• Cover and let steep for one hour.

• Strain into a 1-quart container; cover and keep refrigerated.

To serve, mix one part lemon mint mixture with two parts water. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon or orange slices and sprigs of mint if desired.