Mandy's Meals & More

Lately all I've been craving is a fresh sweet drink to get me through this glorious heat. Summer is here and I am loving it. Grab an assortment of seasonal herbs from your garden and let's make some soda! Or pop as we call it in Canada. I used this super easy Martha Stewart recipe to refresh the whole family. INGREDIENTS 1/2 cups sugar 3/4 ounce fresh herbs, such as basil, lemon verbena, mint, tarragon, or thyme 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice Ice, for serving Sparkling water or club soda, for serving DIRECTIONS 1. Put sugar and 1 cup water into a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat; add herbs. Cover; let cool completely. 2. Pour syrup through a fine sieve into a small bowl; discard herbs. Stir in lemon juice. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes. 3. Fill glasses with ice. Add 2 to 4 tablespoons syrup; top with sparkling water or club soda, and stir. ENJOY! -M