Zesty Cherry Limeade: A Refreshing Summer Beverage

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
• 1 cup fresh lime juice
• 0.75 cup granulated sugar
• 4 cups cold water
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 Prise Lime slices for garnish
• 1 Prise fresh mint leaves for garnish
• 1 Prise Ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, add the pitted and halved cherries along with 1 cup of water and the sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cherries break down and the sugar is completely dissolved, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once the cherries have softened, remove the pan from heat and let it cool to room temperature. Then, strain the cherry mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl, pressing down to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.
3. In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice and the remaining 3 cups of cold water. If using vanilla extract, add it now to enhance the flavor.
4. Stir in the cherry juice until well incorporated. Taste and adjust the sweetness by adding more sugar if desired.
5. Chill the cherry limeade in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. Serve over ice in tall glasses, garnishing each with a slice of lime and a sprig of fresh mint.