1. Cut lemons in half and squeeze using a citrus juicer to extract the juice. You need about 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice per serving. Strain out any seeds that fall through—they add bitterness you don’t want.

2. Add lemon juice to your tall glass, then sprinkle in the salt and sugar. Pour in the 2 tablespoons of chilled water. Stir vigorously with a long spoon for 30 seconds until the sugar dissolves completely and you don’t feel any grains at the bottom.

3. Drop 5-7 ice cubes into the glass—the more ice, the colder it stays. Slide a thin lemon slice down the inside of the glass so it rests against the side. This looks pretty and adds a subtle extra hit of citrus as you drink.

4. Shake your soda bottle well right before opening. Pour the chilled club soda slowly over the ice, filling to the top. Give one quick, gentle stir and serve immediately while the fizz is at its peak.