Simple syrup makes cool summer drinks

Simple syrup is just like it sounds - simple to make, simple ingredients, and simple to use. All in all, a great tool for your Labor Day celebrations.

Simple syrup is basically liquid sugar and can be a busy bartender's best friend. With a batch of simple syrup on hand, drinks don't need a lot of stirring or shaking. You can easily produce a minty mojito (visit kitchenscoop.com for that recipe) or myriad other cocktails.

We've been experimenting with the wonders of simple syrup all summer. When the supply gets low, we just whip up some more. Combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and stir just until the sugar dissolves. Cool and refrigerate in a covered jar. Voila! Simple syrup at the ready.

At first, we used our syrup stash to make treats with alcohol, but we quickly figured out it's terrific for virgin drinks, too. Today's trio of citrus "ades" is a good starting point. Whipping up soda-fountain-quality limeade, lemonade, or oranageade takes only two minutes when using simple syrup. From there, let your imagination soar. (Although the recipes are written to serve one, they can be multiplied easily to fit your entertaining needs.) Whether you're having a Labor Day picnic, cookout, or potluck, frosty and fruity "ades" will be a welcome addition. Enjoy!

Contact Beverly Mills and Alicia Ross at Desperation Dinners, c/o United Media, 200 Madison Ave., New York, NY 10016, or visit the Desperation Dinners Web site at kitchenscoop.com.

Limeade or Lemonade

2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice

1/2 cup water

1/3 cup simple syrup

Crushed ice (amount to taste)

Combine all ingredients, mix well, and serve. Start to finish: 2 minutes.

Yield: 1 serving

Approximate values per serving: 52 calories (0 percent from fat), 0 g fat (0 g saturated), 0 mg cholesterol, 0.1 g protein, 14 g carbohydrates, 0 g dietary fiber, 5 mg sodium

Orangeade

1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

1/2 cup water

2 tablespoons simple syrup

Combine all ingredients, mix well, and serve. Start to finish: 2 minutes

Yield: 1 serving

Approximate values per serving: 52 calories (0 percent from fat), 0 g fat (0 g saturated), 0 mg cholesterol, trace protein, 12 g carbohydrates, 0 g dietary fiber, 5 mg sodium