Classic summer 'ades are sweetened with simple syrup, a mixture of water and sugar. Making simple syrup is a cinch, but it still requires heating the water to dissolve the sugar. When summer rolls around, I'm all about finding alternatives to turning on the stove, so I reach for the sweet syrup that's already in my fridge: maple syrup! Maple syrup has an earthy, sweet flavor that pairs so well with limes.

Thirst-quenching tips

A pinch of kosher salt highlights the caramel flavor of the maple syrup, making this drink more than just a lip-puckering punch. Serving the drink over ice also helps cut the sour flavor, because the beverage will mellow as the ice melts. Alternatively, you can add an extra 1/2 cup of water if you drink it straight from the fridge.

Maple Limeade

Serves 4

1 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 10 limes)

1/3 cup maple syrup

Pinch kosher salt

3 1/2 cups water (preferably filtered, which has a cleaner flavor)

Ice

Lime slices (optional)

Strain the lime juice through a fine-mesh strainer, if desired. Place the lime juice, maple syrup, and salt in a pitcher, and stir to combine. Add the water and stir. Chill for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator before serving. If desired, serve over ice with a lime slice.

Recipe notes: Refrigerate for up to one week. To make ahead, combine the lime juice, maple syrup and salt to make limeade concentrate. Freeze in ice cube trays until solid. When ready to use, move the frozen cubes of limeade concentrate to a pitcher. Add 1 cup of warm water, and stir until the cubes melt. Pour in the remaining 2 1/2 cups of cold water, stir and chill.

(Patty Catalano is a contributor to TheKitchn.com, a nationally known blog for people who love food and home cooking. Submit any comments or questions to editorial@thekitchn.com.)