| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 155 | 0g | 0g | 40g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 35g | 2g | 1g | 0.01g |
Growing up on the scenic shores of Charleston, South Carolina, my love for fresh, vibrant flavors was cultivated and shaped by our local Palmetto produce. Sunshine is bottled in many forms in the South, and none so deliciously so as in this Lavender Lemonade Recipe. Infused with the calming aroma of lavender and imbued with the zesty tang of fresh lemons, this beverage is my go-to antidote for those balmy Southern summers.
Lemonade Reinvented
I have fond childhood memories of selling homemade lemonade on hot summer days. The Lavender Lemonade Recipe twists this traditional treat, elevating it to a gourmet level. The added lavender doesn’t only fragrance the lemonade with a soothing aroma but also infuses the bright citrus flavor with an intriguing gentle floral note. You’ll find it a delightful palate cleanser, especially if served alongside hearty Southern staples, like my signature biscuits or fried chicken.
The Power of Lavender
But the Lavender Lemonade Recipe isn’t just about the taste. Lavender has long been valued for its potent health benefits. Known for its calming effect, it’s often used to help alleviate insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness (source). In addition, lemons are chock-full of vitamin C, which can strengthen your immune system (source).
This recipe resembles a refreshing Spanish drink called Tinto de Verano, where red wine is mixed with a caramel-hued lemonade, and garnished with slices of citrus fruit. Just like the Tinto, our Lavender Lemonade pairs well with spicy foods as well, cooling down your palate and counterbalancing the robust flavors.
So why not freshen up your summer menu and embrace the bountiful fusion of citrus and lavender that forms the backbone of this satisfying Lavender Lemonade Recipe? A taste of Southern summer in a glass, it’s the perfect refreshing drink for porch sittin’, BBQs, and Southern suppers. Surf’s up, just like my spirits, every time I take a sip!
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup white sugar
- 5 cups water, divided
- 5 lavender flower heads
- 6 lemons
- 1 drop lavender essential oil (optional)
- Ice cubes, for serving
Method
Step One
Begin by making a simple syrup. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the white sugar and 1 cup of water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved, then remove from heat and let it cool.
Step Two
While the syrup cools, start preparing the lavender infusion. In a separate pot, bring the remaining 4 cups of water to a boil. Add the lavender flower heads, cover the pot, and then remove it from the heat. Allow the mixture to steep for about 15-20 minutes. Once steeped, strain the infusion and discard the lavender flowers.
Step Three
Next, squeeze the juice from the six lemons into the lavender infusion. Stir in the syrup and the lavender essential oil if desired. Make sure to mix well.
Step Four
Finally, refrigerate the lemonade for a couple of hours until it is thoroughly chilled. Serve it over ice cubes and enjoy your homemade Lavender Lemonade!
