Lemons, lemons...pucker up!

Today is lemons.  I have to say, I think they are my favorite fruit.  There is nothing like the fresh burst of citrus in about everything which takes me back to the feeling of Spring. When I look at the majority of things I cook and bake, most things contain some part of a lemon, whether it's juice, peel or zest. Today I am using the peel. 
Lemoncello, an Italian after dinner drink. My variation will be a Vanilla Lemoncello.
3 cups  Vanilla Vodka
Zest of 8 lemons
simple syrup or boil down 1 c water and 3/4 sugar till slightly, and I mean ever so slightly thicker than water, it should yield about 3/4c.
 Yep, that's it.  Pretty simple isn't it.
First what you want to do it zest the freshly cleaned lemons.  I am using organic meyer lemons.  The first time I made this I cut the peels  insteading of zesting however it can be bitter tasting.  This time I wanted a smoother taste.  Zest the lemon peel and put all of it into a glass container with lid.  Add the vodka and put it into a nice dark area for 4 days.  If you have patience, the longer it rests, the better the taste, but I like mine just fine on the fourth day. On the fourth day, use a paper coffee strainer and strain all the peel out.  You want a nice clearish look so strain again if necessary.  Add the approx  3/4c of simple syrup.  At this point, refrigerate over night. 
I freeze shot glasses and serve the lemoncello this way but I rim the glass with sugar first.  Enjoy!

Banana's

What do you do if you have one little banana sitting on the counter, starting to peak, and you have had your quota of banana bread?  Make waffles!  This is a super easy recipe, especially if you use a food processer.
Banana Bread Waffle Recipe~
One banana
1/2 c. pecans
1/2 tsp vanilla
Jiffy  baking mix.  I make mine homemade and keep it in the refrigerator.
1 1/4 cup milk
2 eggs
2tbs melted shortning

Food process the first three ingredients until nuts are pea sized or slightly smaller.  Add the rest of the ingredients at one time and pulse until just mixed. Put into hot waffle iron and enjoy with butter and syrup. Oh you are in for a real treat! Not only does this taste heavenly, but your home will smell heavenly too.