GINGER LIMEADE

This sweet-tart beverage is refreshing on a hot day. Feel free to adjust the sugar to suit your taste. Tote the limeade in a thermos so it stays cold.

6 cups cold water, divided
1/2 cup sugar
3 tablespoons chopped peeled fresh ginger
3 tablespoons grated lime rind
10 mint leaves
1 1/4 cups fresh lime juice (about 6 limes)
4 lime wedges (optional)

Combine 1/4 cup water, sugar, ginger, rind, and mint leaves in a blender, and process until well blended.

Cover; chill for 2 hours.

Add remaining 5 3/4 cups water and juice; stir to combine.

Garnish with lime wedges, if desired.

Yield: 4 servings (serving size: 2 cups)
Adapted from Source: Cooking Light, AUGUST 2005