Lavender Lemonade

Lavender Lemonade Recipe from France | Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Lavender lemonade is a refreshing and unique twist on traditional lemonade, combining the citrusy flavor of lemons with the floral notes of lavender. This recipe is perfect for a hot summer day or as a special treat for a brunch or afternoon tea.

History

Lavender lemonade has been enjoyed for centuries, with lavender being used for its calming and aromatic properties. The combination of lavender and lemon is a classic pairing that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of fresh lavender blooms (stems removed before measuring). Note: 1 tbsp of dried lavender may be substituted for 0.25 cup of fresh. Additional lavender sprigs for garnish, if desired.
1 cup of sugar
5 cups of good-tasting water (divided use)
1 cup of fresh-squeezed lemon juice

How to prepare

In a saucepan, combine 2.5 cups of water with the sugar. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved. Add the lavender to the hot sugar syrup, remove from heat, and let it steep for at least 20 minutes, or longer if desired. Strain the mixture to remove the solids. Stir in the lemon juice and the remaining 2.5 cups of water. The color of the mixture will change. Chill in the refrigerator or serve over ice. Optionally, garnish with sprigs of fresh lavender.

Variations

Add a splash of vodka or gin for a grown-up version of lavender lemonade.
Use honey or agave syrup instead of sugar for a different flavor profile.
Experiment with different herbs, such as mint or basil, for a twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use fresh-squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.

- Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences.

- Steep the lavender in the sugar syrup for at least 20 minutes to infuse the flavor.

- Chill the lemonade before serving for a refreshing drink.

Serving Suggestions

Serve lavender lemonade over ice with a sprig of fresh lavender for a beautiful presentation. Pair with light salads or sandwiches for a refreshing meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique in this recipe is steeping the lavender in the sugar syrup to infuse the flavor. Be sure to strain the mixture before adding the lemon juice and water.

Ingredient Substitutions

If fresh lavender is not available, you can use dried culinary lavender. Be sure to use food-grade lavender to ensure it is safe for consumption.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the lavender-infused sugar syrup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Mix in the lemon juice and water just before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve lavender lemonade in a glass pitcher with slices of lemon and sprigs of fresh lavender for a beautiful presentation. Use decorative straws or stirrers for an extra touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Lavender lemonade pairs well with light and fresh dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, or grilled chicken. It also makes a great accompaniment to brunch or afternoon tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover lavender lemonade in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir before serving, as the ingredients may separate. Serve over ice for a refreshing drink.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of lavender lemonade contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this lavender lemonade come from the sugar used to sweeten the drink. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

There are no fats in this lavender lemonade recipe.

Proteins

There are no proteins in this lavender lemonade recipe.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, while lavender contains antioxidants and may have calming properties.

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens, but individuals with allergies to lavender should avoid this drink.

Summary

Lavender lemonade is a refreshing drink that is relatively low in calories and free of fats and proteins. It is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Summary

Lavender lemonade is a delightful and refreshing drink that combines the floral notes of lavender with the citrusy flavor of lemons. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a hot summer day or special occasion. Enjoy this unique twist on traditional lemonade with friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Lavender Lemonade. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl visiting my aunt in the countryside. My aunt was known for her love of herbs and flowers, and she had a beautiful garden filled with all sorts of plants. One day, as we sat in her kitchen enjoying a warm summer afternoon, she pulled out a yellowed piece of paper from her recipe box and handed it to me with a smile.

"Here, dear," she said, "this is a special recipe for Lavender Lemonade that I learned from a friend of mine many years ago. It's a refreshing drink that's perfect for hot days like this."

I looked down at the faded handwriting on the paper and felt a surge of excitement. I had never heard of Lavender Lemonade before, but the idea of combining the floral scent of lavender with the tartness of lemon intrigued me. I couldn't wait to try it.

My aunt patiently guided me through the steps of making the drink, showing me how to infuse the lemonade with the delicate aroma of dried lavender buds. As I stirred the mixture and watched the petals swirl in the pitcher, I felt a sense of wonder at the magic of cooking.

After a few hours of chilling in the refrigerator, the Lavender Lemonade was ready to be served. I poured it into tall glasses filled with ice and garnished each one with a sprig of fresh lavender. The first sip was like a burst of sunshine on my tongue - sweet, tangy, and fragrant all at once. I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Lavender Lemonade countless times, each batch a little different from the last. Sometimes I add a splash of sparkling water for extra fizz, or a spoonful of honey for a touch of sweetness. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this special drink to the next generation.

But no matter how many times I make it, the magic of Lavender Lemonade never fades. Each sip brings back memories of that summer day in my aunt's kitchen, of learning something new and exciting, and of the joy of creating something beautiful and delicious.

As I sit here now, stirring a pitcher of Lavender Lemonade for my own grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes and traditions that have been passed down to me over the years. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with the past, to honor the memories of those who came before me, and to create new memories for those who will come after.

And so, as I raise my glass to toast the simple pleasures of life, I know that the recipe for Lavender Lemonade will always hold a special place in my heart - a reminder of the joy of discovery, the beauty of nature, and the love that can be shared through food. Cheers to good food, good company, and good memories.