Strawberry Spa Elixir

I just learned that May is National Strawberry Month thanks to a special offering at The Umstead Hotel and Spa (Cary, NC). This month spa guests are treated to an invigorating Strawberry Elderflower Elixir concocted by sous chef Colin Archangelis. You don't need to make the trek to the resort to reap the benefits of his seasonal elixir, which combines the immunity-boosting vitamin C of strawberries with the natural detoxifying elements of elderflower, and flavonoids of the lemon, with the recipe below.

Strawberry Elderflower Elixir Recipe (Yields: 1 gallon)

  • 4 quarts water
  • 3 tablespoons dandelion root
  • 2 tablespoons dried lemon peel
  • 1 cup elderflower
  • peel and juice of 2 lemons
  • ½ cup honey
  • 1 cup strawberries (hulled)
  • 3 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
  • ½ cup strawberry puree


Combine all aromatics, honey, and strawberries in a gallon container.  Let water come up to a simmer and pour over the mixture.  Allow to steep at room temperature for two hours then refrigerate overnight.  The next day, strain through a fine sieve.  Season with white balsamic and strawberry puree to taste and serve.

Eager for more spa-worthy berry delights? Check out our story Berry Delicious.