Mad About Infusions

After reading all about rosemary simple syrup, I had to try it out for myself. So, we mixed up a batch this weekend.

I'm afraid it was dreadfully simple -- just sugar, water, and sprigs of rosemary.But the SMELL!!
If you've never tried this yourself, I'd highly recommend it -- for the lovely aroma alone! You could not get me OUT of the kitchen while this was steeping.

So, while I was there, I decided to try it with lemon verbena as well!
Now, my fridge is filled with infusions... and I'm looking for recipes.

So far, we've enjoyed one new creation -- a "vodka fizz" of sorts featuring vodka, rosemary syrup, lemon juice, a splash of vermouth, and some grapefruit flavored sparkling water. The drinks were refreshing, a bit sweet, and quite herbal. Oh, yes -- and visually appealing. Especially when garnished with a nice, fresh rosemary sprig (which also added nicely to the "bouquet" of the drink, underscoring the rosemary flavor).
I've zeroed in on a few other ideas --a cocktail with rosemary and gin, a lemon verbena "fizz"... maybe even a rosemary watermelon concoction. Oh, yes -- and a good friend suggested I try using the lemon verbena syrup as a glaze for muffins or quickbread... which sounds rather inspiring.

What do you think?

Vodka Rosemary Fizz

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