Drink to your health

Now that it’s January, you may be looking for a more virtuous beverage. Allow me to recommend the cider, thyme and tonic mocktail courtesy of Offbeat + Inspired. It’s seasonal, bright, and not too sweet.

I love how the apple, herbal and lemon flavors play off each other, creating a balanced and complex drink– so rare for a mocktail! Plus, it was fun making my own thyme simple syrup.

This was a hit at my house on New Year’s Eve. I used fresh-squeezed meyer lemon juice (in season and so good right now) and Fever Tree Indian Tonic Water (quality tonic is a must and this one’s the best). I also splashed in some sparkling mineral water to amp up the bubbles and bring down the sweetness a bit further.

Cider, thyme and tonics would also be a perfect match for brunch or a baby shower. If you’re feeling less virtuous, you can always add your favorite alcohol. Apple brandy, gin, or even whiskey could all be wins here.

Salud!