¼cuptightly packed fresh mint leavesstems removed and crushed
6cupfresh watermelonrinds removed and cut into chunks
¾cupfresh lemon juice6-8 medium lemons
½cupcold water(plus more, if needed)
½cupfresh mint leavestightly packed with stems removed
fresh mint sprigsfor garnish
lemon slicesfor garnish
Instructions
To make the simple syrup, add the sugar, water and crushed mint leaves to a small saucepan and heat over medium-high heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and discard mint leaves. Cool completely before using.
Add watermelon chunks, lemon juice and ½ cup cold water to a blender and blend until liquefied. Pour through a fine mesh strainer to remove any larger particles. Taste and add more water, if needed. Sweeten with mint-infused simple syrup, if desired.
Bruise ½ cup fresh mint leaves with fingers to release oils and add to the bottom of a large glass pitcher or jar. If serving immediately, add ice cubes to the container and pour the watermelon mixture over top. Add fresh lemon slices to the container for garnish.
To serve, pour over ice and add a sprig of fresh mint and a lemon slice for garnish.