Fizzy berry cream soda
Serves 2
This is a homemade spin on an Italian cream soda, using fresh berries. It’s made with kids in mind, but grown-ups won’t be able to stop themselves from drinking a glass. A perfect treat for a summer afternoon!
½ cup berries: raspberries, strawberries, blackberries or blueberries work well
1 tablespoon honey
2 cups seltzer or carbonated water
½ cup heavy cream
In small bowl, place berries and add honey. Let sit for 20 to 30 minutes, until berries start to release their juice. Crush the berries with the back of a fork until they are broken down and jammy. Fill two glasses with ice. Add equal amounts of the berry jam to each glass. Add about 1 cup seltzer to each glass. Pour equal amounts of cream into each glass and stir. Serve immediately, with a spoon or straw.
Cardamom cooler
Makes 4 drinks
Cardamom has some heat – a spicy herb that cools you down on hot summer days. This drink is perfectly light and refreshing, a great afternoon cooler. If you prefer a cocktail, add a splash of bourbon. The woody sweetness pairs well with the cardamom.
15 green cardamom pods, crushed with the back of a knife or rolling pin
2 cups water, boiling
¼ cup honey
2 cups seltzer or carbonated water
Bourbon, optional
Place crushed cardamom pods into a muslin steeping bag, or mesh tea strainer. Add to boiling water, and let steep until the flavor is strong, about 30 to 45 minutes. Add honey and stir until dissolved. Fill four glasses with ice. Add ½ cup cardamom syrup to each glass. Add ½ cup seltzer to each glass. Stir and served. (For a boozy version, add about one ounce of bourbon.)
