Blueberry Lemon Spritz!

A summertime drink that cools you down while quenching your thirst! Best enjoyed sitting outside, soaking up the sun. We drank the nonalcoholic version, but this would be perfect with a splash of your favorite gin. If you’re not in the mood for a spritzer, the blueberry lemon syrup works great to sweeten up a batch of lemonade, or even drizzled over pancakes, french toast or waffles!

Blueberry Lemon Syrup:

Ingredients:

2 cups blueberries

1 lemon

1 cup sugar

Method:

Holding a lemon in your hand, use a peeler to make long strips of lemon peel (working from tip to tip). Toss lemon peel, sugar and blueberries into a bowl and mix until combined. Use the backside of a spoon or a rubber spatula to press down on blueberries to help release their juices. Allow mixture to macerate for at least 1 hour and up to 24 hours. Put blueberry mixture into a small pot and add 1 ½ cups of water. Bring to a boil, then turn down and let simmer for 10 minutes. Stir and scrape the bottom and sides of the pot to prevent scorching any of the sugars. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Remove solids by pouring mixture through a strainer or cheesecloth. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use. 

To make the spritz:

1 ½ oz blueberry lemon syrup

½ oz lemon juice

5 oz club soda

Mint leaves, lemon peel or blueberries for garnish (optional)

Fill a glass with ice, and add syrup and lemon juice. Pour in club soda and give it a stir. If you’re in the mood, garnish with some mint sprigs, lemon peel or blueberries.