Mint Lemonade

In a medium saucepan, heat and stir the sugar and 2 cups water over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat. Stir in 1-1/2 cups mint leaves; cool for 20 minutes at room temperature. Strain mixture, discarding mint leaves.

Finely shred 1 tablespoon of peel from lemons and limes. Squeeze juice from lemons and limes (should be 2 to 2-1/2 cups total). In a 2-quart jar or pitcher, combine cooled mint syrup, citrus peel and citrus juice. Cover; chill for at least 4 hours to 24 hours.

Just before serving, stir mixture. To serve, mix equal parts of citrus mixture and chilled water (about 1/2 cup of each). Add slices or wedges of lemon and lime. Pour into ice-filled glasses. If you like, garnish each glass with additional mint. Makes 5 or 6 servings.