Side Dish

This simple blend of fruit, natural sweeteners, tea, and seltzer water is an ideal afternoon or evening drink for a casual gathering with friends or an afternoon surprise during the work week.

1 cup purified water
6 ounces raspberries
1 teaspoon herbal or black tea leaves
1 cup honey
1 small orange, washed and cut into 8 thin slices
8 cups chilled seltzer water

Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan and drop in the raspberries. Lower heat and simmer for three minutes.

Remove from heat and sprinkle the tea into the pan. Cover and let steep for two minutes.

Strain the warm liquid through a fine mesh strainer into a small saucepan, using the back of a large spoon to break up the pulp of the berries and push the liquid through. Add the honey. Stir for about two minutes, then chill in the refrigerator.

Place one orange slice at the bottom of eight tall glasses. Pour one tablespoon of the chilled raspberry syrup and one cup of cold seltzer water into each glass. Stir, add ice, and serve immediately. If you wish, stick a couple of colorful straws in each glass for added color and fun.

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