Start by placing the sugar and water in a small saucepan. Over medium heat, stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved into the water. This creates a simple syrup, which is the base for your drink mix. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved to avoid any gritty texture in your drink mix later.

Once the syrup has cooled down a bit, add the freshly squeezed lemon juice and lime juice. Stir well to combine. These two ingredients give the sweet and sour drink mix its signature tangy flavor and refreshing acidity. The balance between sweet and sour is key, so be sure to taste as you go and adjust to your preference.

Now, pour the mixture into a clean jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid. Give it a good shake or stir to fully combine the ingredients. If you’d like, add a little lemon zest for an extra citrusy boost. This adds a fragrant touch to the mix and makes it even more refreshing.

Refrigerate the mix for at least an hour before using. The chill time helps the flavors meld together and ensures your sweet and sour drink mix is nice and cold when you’re ready to serve it. You can store the mix in the fridge for up to a week, so feel free to make a big batch and keep it on hand for future use.