Lemon Mint Slushie
It is HOT outside and we all need a little something cool and refreshing. This Lemon Mint Slushie is perfect for hot summer afternoons.
It starts with a simple syrup infused with lemon zest and fresh mint. Simple syrup is made with equal parts sugar and water. In this version we add the lemon zest and mint to the sugar and water and cook it for several minutes to infuse flavor. The recipe for the simple syrup will make about 2 batches of slushies. You can keep it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
The slushie is made with lemon juice, water, flavored simple syrup and ice. One trick for smoother slushies is to let the ice sit at room temperature for about five minutes before blending. It softens the ice and makes it easier to blend.
Lemon Mint Slushie
3 Cups Ice
1/4 Cup Water
1/2 Cup Lemon Juice
1/2 Cup Lemon Mint Simple Syrup (See Recipe Below)
Lemon Mint Simple Syrup
3/4 Cup Water
3/4 Cup Sugar
1/4 Cup Fresh Mint Leaves
Zest of 1 Lemon (I like to use a veggie peeler to get large pieces of zest.)
Directions
Make the simple syrup. In a small saucepan add water, sugar, lemon zest and mint leaves. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat. Cool to room temperature and strain out the mint and zest. **Note** This will make about 1 cup of simple syrup which is enough for two batches of slushies.
To make the slushie, add ice to blender and let sit at room temperature for five minutes. Add water, lemon juice and lemon mint simple syrup. Blend for 30 seconds to 1 minute until the ice is well blended. Taste to see if it is too tart or too sweet. If it is too tart, add a touch more simple syrup. If it is too sweet, add a touch more lemon juice. Serve immediately.
