It is the surprise of the lavender that makes this lemonade particularly inviting. Lavender blossoms add a flavor note that is unique, and also quite refreshing. They also add an enchanting depth of color to this lovely Lavender Lemonade.
Surprising Lavender Lemonade
On a hot summer’s day there is nothing as refreshing as a cold glass of lemonade. It isn’t just the drink itself that promises to quench our thirst. The bright color and tart aroma also delight our senses. The clink of the ice in the glass promises our ear that we will be refreshed. The cool damp of the sweating glass is invigorating.
A glass of lemonade made from fresh squeezed lemons is one of summer’s simple pleasures. I recommend it highly. Are you feeling a bit more adventurous, or just want to try something new? How about adding an infusion of lavender to this refreshing summer pleaser?
Lavender is plentiful this time of year. It’s color and fragrance are charming. Yet using lavender in recipes still seems to be a novelty to most folks. This recipe for Lavender Lemonade is a great introduction to lavender as an ingredient in the kitchen. If you choose your lavender carefully, before long you may want to add it to Lavender Meringue Cookies with White Chocolate and Almonds or to Honey Lavender Roasted Figs. Used thoughtfully, it can add a nice bit of color and flavor to many dishes.
Choosing Lavender for Recipes
To me, it is the surprise of the lavender that makes this lemonade particularly inviting. The lavender blossoms add a flavor note that is somewhat unusual, and also quite refreshing. They also add an enchanting spark of color to an otherwise ordinary lemonade. At first, as you prepare the lavender infusion, the color is pale and unimpressive. But, when you add the lemon juice and stir, the color blooms into something delightful.
Make sure the lavender you choose to use is a culinary variety. Also, check to insure that it has not been sprayed with any harmful chemicals. I bought Hidcote lavender, a variety recommended for culinary use. It has a mild flavor and imparts beautiful color to an infusion. It came from Lacamas Lavender Farm at the Camas Farmers’ Market. If the lavender you are buying is not clearly marked, ask questions. Vendors are usually more than happy to share their knowledge and advice.
Relax and enjoy!
Lavender Lemonade
Course: BeverageDifficulty: Easy6
servings10
minutes20
minutes30
minutesA glass of refreshing lemonade is one of summer’s simple pleasures. Culinary lavender adds subtle flavor and bold color to this unique recipe.
Ingredients
1 cup sugar
5 cups water, divided
1/4 cup fresh, or 1 tablespoon dried, lavender blooms stripped from stems
1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice, strained
Ice cubes
Lavender sprigs and lemon slices for garnish
Directions
- Place the sugar and 2 1/2 cups water in a medium saucepan and stir to combine. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved.
- Add the lavender, cover, and remove from heat. Let the mixture stand for at least 20 minutes and up to several hours.
- Strain the mixture discarding the lavender blossoms. Pour it into a glass pitcher. Add the lemon juice and another 2 1/2 cups of water. Stir well and serve in pretty glasses over ice.
Notes
- Recipe Source: from Happy Valley Lavender
DELICIOUS! I added a sprig of thyme to the steeping syrup. SO good. I used lavender from my moms garden.
It looks indeed so refreshing!
I wonder if I can use my unsprayed lavender from my garden?? I am a fraid I would poisen myself! I'll see if my Whole Foods has it because I love the flavor and color of your lemonade!
What a great color, it must taste simply amazing.
Beautiful and refreshing, can't think of a better way to cool off.
I will be trying this one!!
Wow, the color, so beautiful!
My lavender is still going strong, so I will definitely give this a try!
looks delicious!
The color is amazing! I love fresh squeezed lemonade. I always crave it in summer. I would love to try it with the lavender!
Lemonade is perfect for the hot weather we've been having. Its the best thirst quencher. I have lavendar growing in my yard but don't have a clue what variety it is. Would never have thought to add it to lemonade.
wow–i can't believe the amazing color imparted by the lavender! that's a gorgeous beverage, lisa, and i'm sure it's quite tasty and refreshing too.
This looks so refreshing, and I love the color!