In preparation for a hot weekend to come (90+ degrees!) I made a batch of what might be called an “Arnold Palmer”.  I used fresh mint leaves to make the tea and then added fresh squeezed lemons (aka lemonade).  I must say I did have to add some sugar (though I’m not normally a “sweet tea” kind of gal despite my southern roots) to sweeten the deal……..

Fresh Mint Tea with Lemonade (aka an Arnold Palmer)

Pour boiling hot water (lets say roughly 4 cups) onto fistful of mint leaves.  I also threw in a few thai mint basil leaves to make it interesting.  

Allow the leaves to steep in the water for about 20 min or more.  This is a good time to add sugar so that it dissolves easily- start with 4 tablespoons, you can always add more.  

Meanwhile squeeze 8-10 lemons (discard seeds) and wait for tea to cool a bit. 

Add a cup or two of ice cubes to water and cool it down.  Then add the fresh squeezed lemon juice to the tea and you may be inclined to water it down a bit more depending on your mint.  I find I add a cup or two of cold water so that it’s not too intense.  Finally add some thinly slice lemons and some  fresh mint leaves and if you have - I also tossed in some of the thai basil and its flowers to the mix for a touch of garnish.  

Very cool!