HERBAL LEMONADES

After making several batches of fruity lemonades I've decided to experiment with my favorite herbs.  The result was AMAZING: refreshing lemonades with subtle flavours of basil, tarragon, and lavender.  Today, to celebrate the first day of September I am making more delicious herbal lemonades!

First, you need to make syrup.

What you need: 

equal parts of sugar and water (I've used 1/3 cup water and about 1/3 cup sugar for each batch)

What to do: 

• In a small sauce pan combine sugar and water.  
• Bring to boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
• Remove from heat

Now it's time to add your favorite herbs.  I am making 3 different favours:

• basil-lemon lemonade with sliced peaches
• tarragon-lime lemonade
• lavender lemonade.

What you need:

For each batch you will need about 2tbsp chopped herbs.  If you are doubling the amount of syrup, make sure to adjust the amount of herbs.

What to do:

• While syrup is still hot, pour it over herbs and steep for 5-10 minutes. 
• Strain the mix and ....  

voilà, the base for your lemonade is ready!

To turn your herbal syrup into lemonade, add water and lemon/lime juice.

What to do:

• For 1/3cup of syrup I ended up adding about 3 1/2 cups of water and 1/4 cup of juice.
• Stir well and refrigerate.
• Serve garnished with sprigs of herbs and lemon slices.

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