Sometimes the key to surviving a hot afternoon is the perfect glass of lemonade. I learned this recently at a farmer’s market where I came across an amazing raspberry lemonade. It can be life changing! Brewing the perfect lemonade at home is easy, with a few tips:
1. Start with a simple syrup: boil equal parts water and sugar until dissolved. Optional: add lemon zest to the syrup as it cools and strain with a fine-mesh sieve. 2. Add fresh lemon juice and about 1 cup of cold water for each lemon used - test until you are happy with the level of sweetness. A rule of thumb is about 3 lemons for each 1/2 cup of simple syrup. 3. Dress it up! Add lime or orange juice, pureed and strained fruit like strawberries and raspberries, or more exotic flavors like ginger root and dried lavender flowers (very French!).
As you enjoy your next glass of cold lemonade in the oasis of your own yard, take a look at your curb appeal. Considering changes? I can share some ideas from the many houses I’ve viewed along the SF Peninsula!
