More Goodness a la Donna

I'm ready for a bike ride in the countryside complete with handsome husband, gourmet picnic, and lots of sunshine. The snow is beautiful but these photos make me yearn for springtime. Since I always have lemons around (I buy a big bag at Costco twice monthly) why not make some thyme lemon spritzer to tide myself over until warmer days?

Thyme Lemon Spritzer

1 c. superfine sugar
1 c. water
1 sprig thyme
2 c. crushed ice
3 c. sparkling mineral water
1 TB. fresh lemon juice
thyme sprigs for garnish

Place the sugar and water in a saucepan over low heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Add the thyme, increase the heat to medium and bring to the boil. Simmer for 5-8 minutes or until slightly thickened. Remove from the heat, strain, and allow to cool. Pour the thyme syrup over crushed ice, top with mineral water and lemon juice and stir to combine. Add the extra sprigs of thyme as garnish. Serves 4.


Note: serve with the Barefoot Contessa Cheese Straws made from puff pastry dough. Super easy!

All photos and recipe per Donna Hay magazine