This jelly comes out a very pretty color and whispers of simpler, romantic days.

1. Bring water to boil; pour over flowers. Steep 20 minutes; strain.

2. Combine infusion, lemon juice, and sugar. Bring to a full boil, stirring constantly.

3. Add pectin and boil hard 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and add food coloring.

4. Ladle into sterilized jars. Wipe rim; cap and seal. Process in water-bath canner 10 minutes.

• MAKES 4–5 PINTS

• INGREDIENTS

• 2 ½ cups cold water

• ½ cup fresh lavender flowers or 3 tablespoons dried flowers

• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice

• 4 cups granulated sugar

• 1 3-ounce envelope liquid

• pectin

• lavender food coloring (2 drops red and 2 drops blue)