Step 1

Combine water, sugar, and half of the mint leaves in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 1 minute.

Step 2

Remove from heat and let syrup steep, about 30 minutes. Discard the mint leaves and refrigerate the syrup to let it cool.

Step 3

Combine the mint simple syrup, the rest of the fresh mint leaves and the fresh lemon juice in a blender. Blend at high speed until well mixed.

Step 4

Add the ice and blend until the ice is thoroughly crushed. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.