Start by boiling 1 cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once boiling, add 1 cup of granulated sugar-free sweetener, stirring continuously until fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool completely.

Wash and slice approximately 5 standard lemons in half. Using a citrus juicer, extract juice until you have about 1 cup of fresh lemon juice.

In a large pitcher, pour the freshly squeezed lemon juice and add 3 to 4 cups of cold water. Stir gently to mix, adjusting the amount based on your desired tartness.

Gradually add the cooled simple syrup to the pitcher, starting with about ¾ cup. Stir well and taste; adjust sweetness as desired.

Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill. Serve over ice, garnished with fresh lemon slices or mint leaves.