Start by rolling the fresh limes on a hard surface to maximize juice extraction. Cut each lime in half and juice them to collect about 1 cup of freshly squeezed lime juice.

In a large pitcher, combine the freshly squeezed lime juice with 4 cups of cold water. Stir well until the lime juice is evenly distributed.

Add sugar or your chosen sweetener to the limeade mixture, starting with about half a cup. Stir thoroughly until the sweetener has completely dissolved.

Cover the pitcher and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to chill.

Once chilled, fill glasses with ice cubes, stir the limeade once more, and pour it over the ice. Garnish with lime slices or fresh mint and serve immediately.