Lemonade is often associated with refreshment and hot summer days. When the mercury on the thermometer has reached record heights, few beverages are as refreshing as a cold glass of lemonade.

This summer figures to have its share of hot afternoons. But while the higher temperatures might be typical this time of year, your choice for refreshment can be anything but typical even if you stick with lemonade. The following recipe for “Apple Lemonade” offers a unique take on a summer favorite.

Apple Lemonade

Serves 4

2 to 3 cooking apples,
unpeeled, chopped into
small pieces
Sugar, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
Sparkling water
Ice

Put the apples into a saucepan, cover with cold water, bring to a boil and simmer until soft. Strain, pressing the pulp through the strainer with a spoon. Add sugar to taste, stir until dissolved, then let cool.

To serve, pack a pitcher with ice, half-fill the glass with the apple juice, add the lemon juice, and top with sparkling water.