One of the greatest joys of summertime is upon us… blackberry season! And with all that juicy, blackberry goodness, summer is also a great time for garden herbs. Depending on where you live, sage can be more of a fall/winter herb, but here in North Idaho, our sage goes strong all summer long.
A humble member of the Lamiaceae (mint) family, sage (aka Salvia officinalis) is probably best known as a common culinary herb that pairs especially well with poultry and pork dishes. Medicinally, sage leaf is useful as a memory enhancer, appetite stimulant, digestive aid and has some impressive anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. In fact, in addition to its other talents, sage also has a long history as a nitrate-free preserving agent, reducing oxidative damage in meats and cheeses. Who knew??
In this recipe for a blackberry-sage spritzer, the sweet tartness of ripe berries is beautifully balanced by the warm earthiness of fresh sage, creating a refreshing and complex drink that’s a bit more sophisticated than your average spritzer. ??
Blackberry-Sage Spritzer
Ingredients
- 1/4 c sage, finely chopped
- 1/4 c hot water
- 1/4 c sugar
- 3 oz vodka
- blackberries
- sparkling mineral water or club soda
Instructions
- To make the sage simple syrup, combine hot water, sugar and chopped sage in a small container; cover and allow to infuse for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, add vodka and a handful of blackberries, and use a muddler (or the end of a wooden spoon handle) to smash the blackberries into the vodka.
- Using a mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the solid plant matter out of your simple syrup; add 3 oz of the sage simple syrup to the blackberry-vodka mixture.
- Add ice to two glasses and divide blackberry-sage mixture.
- Top each glass with sparkling mineral water or club soda and enjoy!
