Lebanese Orange Blossom Lemonade with Fresh Mint and Honey

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 8 lemons)
• 4 cups cold water
• 3 tbsp honey or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
• 1.5 tsp orange blossom water
• 1 cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
• 1/4 tsp rose water (optional)
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices for garnish
• Fresh mint sprigs for garnish
• Pinch of fine sea salt to enhance flavor
• Edible dried rose petals for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine fresh lemon juice, cold water, honey, and a pinch of salt in a large pitcher. Stir vigorously until honey is fully dissolved.
2. Add orange blossom water (and rose water if using). Start with less — these floral waters are potent and can easily overpower. Add more to taste.
3. Add fresh mint leaves directly to the pitcher. Stir gently and refrigerate 15-20 minutes to infuse.
4. Taste and balance: more honey for sweetness, more lemon for brightness, more orange blossom for floral depth.
5. Fill tall glasses with ice cubes.
6. Pour lemonade over ice, straining out the mint if you prefer a cleaner look, or pour with mint for a rustic presentation.
7. Garnish each glass with a fresh mint sprig, a lemon slice, and a few dried rose petals. Serve immediately.