Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker

[dropcap]F[/dropcap]or maximum refreshment this summer, treat your guests to some frozen blackberry lemonade. This fruity, frozen concoction whips up quickly in the blender and is the perfect cure for those blazing summer days.

Frozen Blackberry Lemonade
Yield: 2-4 servings

Ingredients:
For the blackberry syrup:
1 cup blackberries, frozen or fresh
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup water

1/3 cup lemon juice, freshly squeezed
3/4 cup cold water
2-3 cups ice

Directions:
To make the blackberry syrup, place the blackberries, sugar and 1/2 cup of water into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the blackberries are soft, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and discard the leftover seeds and pulp. Place the remaining blackberry syrup into the refrigerator until chilled.

In a blender, combine the chilled blackberry syrup, lemon juice, cold water and ice. Blend until smooth. Serve immediately.