Cooking with Herbs...in a drink?

 Herb Infused Lemonade

This is a delicious summer drink treat!

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serves 4-6

Ingredients:

*2 cups granulated sugar OR 1 cup Agave nectar (natural, low glycemic sweetner)

*1 cup loosely packed, torn fresh organic basil leaves, stems removed OR 1/4 cup fresh rosemary leaves, slightly chopped

*Ice

*2 cups fresh lemon juice (about 12-15 large lemons)

*2 cups sparkling water, chilled

Directions:

Make the herb infused “simple syrup”

· In a medium saucepan, combine the water and agave - stir to combine

· Add the prepared herbs to the water/agave mixture and press down gently so that the herbs are covered

· Bring the mixture to a simmer (just below the boiling point) and simmer for 5 minutes.

· Remove the sauce pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool - do NOT remove the herbs.

· When the mixture has cooled, pour it through a strainer into a 2-3 cup measuring cup - squeeze the herbs into the strainer and discard the herbs.

· Store the simple syrup in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Make the lemonade in this order...

· Add ice to a large drink pitcher (about 1/2 full)

· Add the lemon juice to the pitcher

· Add the simple syrup and stir well

· Add the chilled sparkling water

Serve in drink glasses with an herb sprig and a lemon twist!

Want to make this an alcoholic beverage? 

Just add vodka or rum to your taste and enjoy!