Lavender Lemonade
By: Erin Berard
Published: June 29, 2011

On a hot lazy summer day, nothing beats a glass of ice cold homemade lemonade. While throwing a baby shower for a friend last year, we experimented with tradition and added a little French twist of lavender in with the lemons. This recipe is great for small and large parties alike since you can make the lavender simple syrup ahead of time. Simply double the simple syrup recipe below and save half in the fridge for next time!
Lavender Lemonade 
	Yield: 5, 8 oz. glasses
For the simple syrup: 
	1 cup water
	1 cup sugar 
	1 Tablespoon dried culinary lavender 
For the lemonade:
	1 1/4 cup chilled water
	1 1/4 cup lemon juice (from 6-8 lemons depending on size)
	1/4 cup ginger ale (optional)
	Ice cubes
	Lemon slices for garnish
Combine the water, sugar, and lavender in a medium saucepan over and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for at least 1 hour, or until cool. Strain the cooled mixture into a large pitcher, removing the dried lavender buds. Add the chilled water, lemon juice, and ginger ale, adjusting amounts as needed to your taste preferences. Fill glasses with ice and lemonade, garnish with lemon slices, serve, and enjoy!
	Imagine yourself in Southern France among the fragrant aroma of lavender fields.