If there is one thing that signifies the beginning of an incredible summer, it’s a beautifully stocked and vibrantly growing herb garden. This is the third summer I have grown one now, but this summer’s is the best yet! I’ve got everything from the usual basil, chives, oregano, cilantro, and parsley to some more unique things this year, such as purple basil and lemon thyme. One addition that I am super excited to have started growing this year is lavender.
The lavender syrup isn’t naturally colored, but a couple drops of food coloring gel give it a beautifully deep purple color that allows for a hint of violet in the final product.
Not only does it add to the lovely fresh fragrance on our deck, but it is also a beautifully subtle addition to cocktails, ice creams, and other dishes. I can’t wait to try some of the lavender in an ice cream, but for now, I’ve created this beautifully refreshing summer lavender cocktail.
Gin is my jam, and a gin fizz is the perfect craft cocktail for the summer! In this version, the crispness of gin is paired with floral notes of lavender and tart, fresh lemon juice.
Topping it off with some fizzy club soda makes this a deliciously cooling cocktail for the summer!
Did you try this recipe? Let me know in the comments below or by tagging #thecharmingdetroiter!
Ingredients
- 2 oz. gin
- 1/2 oz. lemon juice
- 1 oz. lavender simple syrup
- 1 egg white
- Club soda
- Lavender flowers, for garnish
- For lavender simple syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 tbsp. lavender flowers
- 1 drop violet food coloring (optional)
Instructions
Fill a tall collins glass or other tumbler with ice.
Fill shaker with ice. Add gin, lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and egg white. Shake for 30-45 seconds. Strain into collins glass. Top with club soda and lavender flowers for garnish, if desired.
To make lavender simple syrup:
Combine water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and add the lavender flowers. Cover the saucepan and allow to steep for 10 minutes. Remove lavender and strain syrup into an airtight bottle or container for storage. Add a drop of violet food coloring, if desired. Chill in the refrigerator before use.
