Lemonade

The summer heat has made the record books this year. The temperature here in the east has hovered in the high 90's. It even broke 100 a few times. And, when it is that hot you really do not feel like eating. You just want to sip a cool drink.

Iced tea is wonderful, water is always a good choice, but lemonade says summertime.

Fresh lemonade can't be beat. The aroma alone is intoxicating. As you cut into each lemon, a burst of citrus fills the air and you know you are in for a treat. Fresh lemonade gives you all the control. You can add a little sugar or a lot. You can alter the flavor with fruit or herbs, like mint and lavender.

Lemonade was created by the Egyptians over 1,500 year ago. The drink was called “qatarmizat”.

Plus, you can feel good about enjoying your next glass of lemonade knowing that it is an excellent source of vitamin C, cleanses the body of toxins and aids in digestion.

Cheers!

August 20 is Lemonade Day

Lavender Lemonade

4 cups water, divided
¼ cup dried lavender leaves
½ cup sugar
1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 6 lemons)

Bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Stir in lavender. Remove for heat and cover. Let steep for 30 minutes. Strain lavender through a fine sieve and discard lavender leaves. Combine 3 cups of water and sugar in saucepan. Bring to boil until sugar has dissolve. Remove for heat. Combine lavender water, sugar water and lemon juice. Stir and chill. Serve over ice.