Blueberry Lemonade

Blueberry Lemonade

This recipe begins with a berry- and lemon-infused simple syrup.

You will need:

1 1/2 pints blueberries, washed (raspberries or strawberries can also be used for this recipe)

2 cups sugar

1 cup water

5-6 lemons + zest of 2-3 of the lemons

Using a peeler, remove the zest from the lemons in long strips.

In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the sugar and stir to dissolve, then add the berries and strips of lemon zest. Allow the sugar to dissolve and simmer the fruit for about 5 minutes. Allow to cool for a few minutes. Discard the zest.

Place a mesh strainer over the mouth of a pitcher or jug. Pour the berry syrup into the strainer, mashing the berries against the mesh with a spoon or spatula.

Using a juicer or a reamer, extract the juice from the lemons and add to the syrup. Stir to combine. Dilute the mixture with 3-4 cups of cold water, depending on how strong you want the drink. Taste for sweetness and tartness and add more lemon juice or sweetener if needed.

Chill before serving. Serve with ice and slices of lemon or more strips of lemon zest.