Verbena Simple Syrup

2 cups water
2 cups sugar
Generous handful fresh lemon verbena leaves

Bring all ingredients to a boil, then let cool to room temperature. Remove lemon verbena leaves - the syrup should be a light yellow-green color and have the definite flavor and odor of lemon verbena. This syrup has an infinite number of uses; here are some of my favorites:

Use it to sweeten your favorite herbal, black or green tea.

Brush it over your favorite white or citrus cake or sweetbreads and muffins; this will add a delicate flavor and help keep your baked goods extra moist.

Gently drizzle over a bowl of freshly sliced strawberries, blueberries, or peaches.

Use as a sweetener on top of crepes, french toast, or pancakes.

Use it to make a Verbena Margarita :)