Drink Recipe: Lavender Lemonade

What's better than a cool, refreshing lemonade in the summertime? A cool, refreshing lemonade at a summer wedding, of course! Heather Christopher, wedding and event coordinator at Jorgensen Farms, shares the recipe for one of the venue's most popular cocktails: the Lavender Lemonade.

“Herbs are huge this year—both in catering and floral/décor arrangements,” Christopher says. “This is perfect not only for a refreshing drink on a warm day, but also as something colorful and unique that guests will remember.” She suggests serving a kid-friendly version, sans alcohol, before the ceremony, then following it up with the specialty cocktail at the reception.

Lavender Lemonade

Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 10 lavender sprigs
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 cups boiling water
• Red and blue food coloring
• 2 cups lemon juice
• 2 cups cold water
• 6 ounces vodka (optional)
• Ice

Instructions:

Cut the bottom off the lavender sprigs, keeping the top with the buds. Place in a bowl and cover with sugar. Using your hands or a wooden pestle, grind the sugar and herbs together to infuse the flavors.

Pour the boiling water into the mixture and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add one drop each of red and blue food coloring. Cover and let sit for several hours or overnight.

Strain the liquid into a pitcher, discarding the lavender. Top with lemon juice and cold water; taste and add more lemon juice or sugar as desired.

Add ice and one ounce of vodka to each of six glasses; top with lemonade. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a fresh lavender sprig.