I think LEMONADE is the official beverage of summer no matter which part of the world you live in. It changes it’s face across different cultures and borders but essentially the lemon with its tangy and tart flavor is the most popular citrus.

In Pakistan, the country of my birth, it is often referred to as SHIKANJBEEN or even simply as LEEMBOO PANI.

It wasn’t until I arrived in the Middle East, more specifically, Saudi Arabia, that I saw the addition of mint in the mix. Lemon Mint was every where. From the prepackaged sugary variety at grocery stores to freshly squeezed versions at high end restaurants, it was the beverage of choice for the Saudi population. Much like berry flavored drinks are here in the United States.