(do me a quick favor and click on that image to see it larger. then you won't be able to resist making it. evil laugh.)
This drink is summer.
Summer has been shy here in Paris, although I know that where you are it most likely hasn't been. It seems that everyone was suffering heatwaves while we had gray-rain-gray-rain-gray. I'm not complaining too much. I'll take the rain to a heatwave any day!
But these last two days have started to be sweet and I can finally think about finding every excuse to drink this spritzer. I love making them at the end of the day before diving into dinner prep.
Now, the first thing you need to know is that you should make this. The second thing is that (I can hear you crying foul already) it's not technically a spritzer because there is no wine. You won't care because it's so good. Or, if you're really determined, try a really crisp, dry white wine. Maybe 1 part wine to 2 parts sparkling water? Or track down some elderflower liquor. Let me know if you try it.
If you can, try to find organic limes. You're putting the whole fruit in your glass, peel and all, so if you can, organic is a good choice. You should be able to find elderflower syrup in specialty food shops but if not, Ikea sells it in their food selection (as Saft Fläder). There: refreshing drink and an excuse for Ikea. I bet you love me right now.
Elderflower Spritzer
makes 1
1 lime, thinly sliced
a small handful of mint leaves, washed
1 shot glass of Elderflower Syrup
sparkling water (like Perrier or San Pellegrino)
ice cubes
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Pour the shot glass of syrup into your glass. You may find that you like more or less of the syrup after you try this a first time, so you can adjust it to your taste. Take 4 or 5 or your mint leaves and lightly crush them by folding and twisting them. Drop those in your glass along with 2 slices of gently squeezed lime. Fill the glass with ice cubes and top with enough sparkling water for you glass and a straw or swizzle stick and give it a stir. Try not to drink it all in one gulp.
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If you like things extra chilled, try keeping a couple glasses in the freezer that you can pull out to make this drink.
xo,
A.
