Zest 2 lemons and put it into the sugar.
Press and roll each lemon over your cutting board. This will help them to release their juice. Cut in half and squeeze.
Make the simple syrup. Combine the sugar with lemon zest and water in a small pot, bring to a boil and dissolve sugar.
Strain together chilled syrup and lemon juice into a pitcher.
Mix it with water or sparkling water and enjoy!