The smell of this lemonade is the first thing that hits you, floral and herbal and clean, before you even taste the cucumber. Three teaspoons of dried lavender flowers simmered with sugar and water into a syrup, strained and cooled. Blended with fresh lemon juice, peeled and chopped cucumber, and water. Chilled and served cold.
The lavender syrup is sweet and perfumed, and it rounds the tartness of the lemon juice into something softer. The cucumber disappears into the blend but leaves a cool, green freshness behind. You taste flower, citrus, and cucumber in that order. It is a drink that smells like a garden and drinks like summer. We keep making this one on repeat.
Tips for Making Cucumber and Lavender Lemonade
Make the lavender syrup carefully
Three teaspoons of dried lavender, half a cup of sugar, and one cup of water simmered until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool completely before straining.
Lavender is potent. Too much makes the drink taste like soap. Three teaspoons is enough for a subtle floral note.
Blend the cucumber with the lemon juice
Peel and chop one cucumber. Blend with three-quarters of a cup of lemon juice and one cup of water until smooth.
Strain if you want a clear drink. Unstrained has a slightly green tint and more body.
Cucumber and Lavender Lemonade
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A refreshing and aromatic lemonade with the unique flavors of cucumber and lavender, perfect for a quick and easy summer drink.
Ingredients
- 3 tsp dried lavender flowers
- 3/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
- Make the lavender syrup by combining dried lavender flowers with sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let it cool.
- Blend fresh lemon juice with cucumber and water.
- Mix the lavender syrup with the lemon-cucumber blend.
- Serve chilled, optionally with plain soda for fizz.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 5
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I find dried lavender?
Health food stores, specialty spice shops, or online. Make sure it is culinary lavender, not decorative. Food-grade lavender is the same species but sold clean and unsprayed.
Can I add sparkling water?
Yes. Replace the still water with sparkling for a fizzy version. Add the sparkling water just before serving.
How long does this keep?
Up to three days in the fridge. The lavender flavour intensifies slightly over time. Stir before serving.
