Andy’s Strawberry Sparkler

Strawberry syrup

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 c water
• 1 1/2 c sliced fresh strawberries (about 8 ounces berries)
• 1 T lemon juice

Place the sugar, water, strawberries, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan; bring to a boil then turn the heat down and simmer for 10-12 minutes. As the berries get soft, squish them with a spatula, potato masher, or a fork.

Once the berries are fully cooked, strain the syrup into a jar, mashing the berries to get as much liquid as possible. Allow to cool. Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.

Strawberry Sparkler (note: this is for one serving)

• 2-3 T strawberry syrup
• 3/4 c club soda
• lemon wedges (optional)
• mint (optional)
• whole berries (optional)
• 1 1/2 oz vodka (optional – if you want a cocktail, not a mocktail)

Using a highball size glass, mix the syrup with a little club soda, then add ice, and the rest of the club soda. Serve, garnished with lemon or mint or strawberries – or all three.