Kate Lawson: Simply the Best

Lovely lavender can light up recipes

Of all the plants growing near my deck, it's the lavender that brings me the most joy. This time of year, when the lilies are in bloom, the scent of the lavender mingling with them is so intoxicating, all I can do is inhale and smile.

As a relative of mint, lavender's fragrant blossoms may look delicate, but they're really surprisingly sturdy. The plants are pest-free and drought-resistant, so while the hydrangea is wilting in the heat, the lavender just keeps on staying strong.

I cut back the first blooms of the season to dry, and then wait for the plant to re-bloom. Dried blossoms make a great addition to cookies, ice creams, cakes, pies, jellies, teas and freshly whipped cream to top a variety of desserts.

One caveat about lavender, however. The tiny blossoms offer up a powerhouse of flavor, so when in doubt, use less, not more.

These lavender cookies, for instance, are a great way to showcase the herb, but use only 1 teaspoon for flavoring or it will overpower the treat. These are great served midday with some iced tea or to accompany a dish of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Lavender Cookies

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1 cup sugar

2 eggs

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon dried lavender flowers, finely chopped

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

In a medium bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla and lavender and mix well. Combine the flour and baking powder and add to the lavender mixture, stirring until well-blended. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto an ungreased baking sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until lightly browned on the edges. Cool on baking sheet for a minute or two, then transfer to a rack to finish cooling. Makes about 3 dozen cookies.

Per serving: 68 calories; 3 g fat (2 g saturated fat; 40 percent calories from fat); 9 g carbohydrates; 19 mg cholesterol; 26 mg sodium; 1 g protein; 0.1 g fiber.

Simply the Best klawson@detnews.com. (313) 222-6026