Microwave Lemonade with Sparkling Apple Juice

Recipe By: Jay Miller

 Serves: 4

Prep Time: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS

2 large lemons

1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)

2 cups water

1 cup sparkling apple juice

Ice cubes

Lemon slices and mint leaves (for garnish, optional)

METHOD

Roll the lemons on a clean countertop with your palm to soften them, which helps release more juice.

Cut the lemons in half. Place the lemon halves cut-side down in a microwave-safe bowl.

Microwave on high for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.

This will warm the lemons and make them easier to juice. Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot) and let it cool for a few moments.

Squeeze the lemon halves over a measuring cup or bowl to extract the juice.

Use a citrus reamer or fork if needed to get out the maximum juice.

You should have about 1/2 cup of lemon juice. In a pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lemon juice and granulated sugar.

Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.

Add 2 cups of cold water and stir to combine.

Taste and adjust sweetness if necessary.

Pour in the sparkling apple juice and gently stir to mix.

Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the lemonade over the ice.

Garnish with lemon slices and mint leaves, if desired.