An aromatic lavender-infused simple syrup is used to sweeten fresh lemonade.

Lavender Lemonade

5 cups water - divided use

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
12 stems fresh lavender (pesticide-free)
2 1/4 cups freshly squeezed lemon juice

1. Boil 2 1/2 cups of water with the sugar. Add the lavender stems and remove from heat. Cover and cool.
2. Once the lavender-infused simple syrup is cool, add 2 1/2 cups water and lemon juice. Strain out the lavender.
3. Serve the lavender lemonade with crushed ice, garnished with additional fresh lavender blossoms.

Makes 8 servings.