Combine the sugar and lemon zest in a saucepan.
Massage the sugar and zest together to extract the oils from the zest.
Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
Remove from heat immediately after boiling.
Strain the syrup to remove any solids.
Optional: Run the syrup through a coffee filter for a super clear syrup.
Sweeten the lemonade with the lemon syrup to taste.
