In reality I am not the advanced gardener of my dreams. The vision of me wading through overgrown rows of sun warmed produce with a wicker basket in one hand while the other plucks craggy and beautifully imperfect heirloom tomatoes from their fragrant vines, is just that – a vision. I have to believe that someday it will happen but until then I’ll live in my carefully painted dreams of the jungle-like garden overflowing with rainbow colored chard, enough sugar snap peas to last an entire afternoon of snacking, and  berries by the buckets, able to fill dozens of pies and tarts.

In this present time I can, however, produce enough herbs that leave me feeling anxious as to what I am to do with them all. Currently my sage is large enough to swallow one of the children whole and whatever the sage doesn’t devour I have no doubt the parsley will. In an effort to make room for something other than herbs in the garden I’ve formed numerous bouquets with the flowering parts, made pesto in various forms, and created this enticing bubbly soda that satisfies and refreshes as the best summer beverages should.

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Honey Herb Soda

I've used honey as the sweetener here giving me all the more reason to drink this by the pitcher. Make this floral and fizzy brew all the more fancy with the addition of herb ice. Simply put pretty little herb leaves and flowers into ice trays, fill with water, freeze and serve.

1/2 cup honey

1 cup water

a few sprigs herbs such as thyme, mint, rosemary, basil, lemon verbena, tarragon, etc. You can mix and match as you please.

lemon

In a small sauce pan bring the honey and water to a boil. Reduce to medium-high and simmer rapidly for three minutes. Turn off the heat and add the herbs. Steep and let cool.

From this point you can remove the herbs, cover and refrigerate and keep for at least two weeks.

To make a glass of your herb soda add a couple of tablespoons of the honey herb syrup to a large glass. Add 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice then top with soda water. Taste and adjust sweetness/lemon to your taste. Add your fancy ice and straw. If you have one of those big floppy summer hats, now would be a completely appropriate time to wear it.