Mint Lemonade in 10 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Combine the granulated sugar and 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved and the liquid is clear, ensuring it does not reach a rolling boil.
3. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the packed mint leaves.
4. Let the mixture steep for 5 minutes to infuse the mint essence, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl and discard the leaves.
5. Juice fresh lemons until you have exactly 1 cup (240ml) of juice.
6. Stir the salt into the lemon juice immediately to enhance the sweetness and suppress bitterness.
7. Pour the chilled filtered water and the seasoned lemon juice into a large glass pitcher.
8. Slowly stir in the cooled Mint Lemonade Syrup.
9. Stir gently for 30 seconds to ensure all flavors are fully integrated.