Sip on summer mocktails

Story and photos by JANNA ZEPP

Lounging around a pool often requires something refreshing and relaxing to drink, but the summer’s heat dehydrates us enough without the help of alcohol. Moreover, the danger of excessive drinking causes substantial organ damage after a lifetime of indulging one too many times.

Aside from the ominous lifestyle consequences, non-drinkers don’t want to feel left out of the fun of sipping an exotic and flavorful concoction. For all these reasons, society has moved toward imbibing nonalcoholic alternatives.

Some drinking establishment menus offer mocktail alternatives now. The alcohol-free spirits business is booming. People now want to make healthier choices in their food and beverage entertainment.

You can enjoy the refreshments without the booze with a little creativity and a sense of adventure. The following cocktail recipe will keep you enjoying your leisure time without reaping a wicked hangover or serious health issues.

Tangerine Rosemary Mocktail

A staple of many cocktails, citrus fruit makes an excellent summer choice. This one will be a party favorite. Double, triple, or quadruple the recipe and make a pitcher of this elixir to have an ample supply for your next pool party.

Ingredients
¼ cup fresh squeezed tangerine juice
1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon rosemary simple syrup
2 tablespoons lemon-lime soda
Club soda
Ice
Directions: Fill glass with ice. Add in juices, simple syrup, and lemon-lime soda. Top off with club soda. Garnish with tangerine slice and sprig of rosemary. Stir before drinking. (If you prefer your drinks a little less sweet, just leave out the lemon-lime soda)

Rosemary Simple Syrup

½ cup water
½ cup granulated sugar
4 sprigs rosemary
Instructions: Combine water, sugar and rosemary in a small saucepan over medium heat.
Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar is completely dissolved.
Remove from heat and let sit for about 10 minutes.
Strain out rosemary and let cool completely.
Store syrup in a lidded jar or bottle in the refrigerator

I opted to sprinkle Valencia orange peel on my creation. You will see it in my photo. It is a great alternative for anyone allergic to rosemary.

Like this cocktail? Let me know at Janna.Zepp@gmail.com.