Refreshing sips: Crafting lemon balm beverages
Lemon balm, a relative of mint, holds a special place in the culinary world. Its fragrant leaves offer a unique versatility. In particular, its refreshing and subtle lemony flavor makes it a game-changer for drinks. We have compiled five fun and easy ways to incorporate lemon balm into your beverages, adding a touch of elegance and a burst of flavor.
Lemon balm herbal tea
Making lemon balm herbal tea is easy and rewarding. Just toss a handful of fresh or dried leaves into boiling water and let it steep for five to ten minutes. Voila! You've got yourself a fragrant, calming cup of comfort. Enjoy it any time you need a little extra coziness.
Sparkling lemon balm lemonade
Take the classic lemonade up a notch with the addition of sparkling water and the fresh, citrusy flavor of lemon balm leaves. Simply mix the juice of two lemons, $2 worth of honey or sugar for sweetness, a cup of sparkling water, and a handful of bruised (to release flavor) lemon balm leaves. Serve over ice for a refreshing, bubbly treat that's perfect for hot summer days.
Lemon balm and berry smoothie
To make a healthy breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up, simply blend one cup of mixed berries, one banana, half a cup of yogurt or almond milk, and a large handful of fresh lemon balm leaves. The result is a beautifully vibrant smoothie packed with antioxidants and a refreshing burst of flavor - perfect for anyone looking to nourish their body without compromising on taste.
Cucumber and lemon balm cooler
To make this refreshing cooler, simply muddle a few cucumber slices along with some fresh lemon balm leaves in the bottom of your glass before adding ice. Top it off with some chilled soda water or tonic for that extra fizziness. And if you like your drinks on the sweeter side, just add $1 worth of simple syrup or agave nectar to taste.
Lemon balm-infused water
Elevate your everyday hydration routine by infusing water with slices of citrus fruits such as lemons or oranges, and sprigs of fresh lemon balm. Simply prepare this in large pitchers and let it sit overnight in the refrigerator to chill. The resulting infused water is not only beautiful to look at but also delicately flavored, transforming regular water consumption into a refreshing experience.
