Drinkies: Strawberry Rhubarb Soda (for Grown-ups)

​This refreshing, fruity beverage is mighty tasty with or without vodka, although if you’ve been paying attention I think you already know my recommendation. 

​In a recent newsletter* I revealed my long-held dislike of rhubarb, brought on by sampling it cooked but unsweetened when I was just a child. Never again, I vowed. Until now. In the spirit of culinary adventure, I promised readers that this month I would overcome my rhubarb resistance and make something yummy with it. I specifically said ‘dessert’ but I think ‘cocktail’ works just as well if not better, don’t you?​

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Back to the rhubarb. The awesome food blog Smitten Kitchen’s recipe for Strawberry-Rhubarb Soda Syrup showed up in my Facebook feed one day looking so pink and delicious I just had to give it a try.

And try it we did – cocktails on the patio one balmy Sunday afternoon. Heavenly, although a word to the wise: they go down quite easily, so pace yourself.

This is essentially a simple syrup (make ahead; keeps in the fridge for 2-3 weeks) mixed with club soda and a squeeze of lemon. Homemade soda is fun to make, and this unexpected flavor is delicious all by itself.

Or you can kick it up a notch by adding the spirit of your choice to enjoy the perfect springtime cocktail. We went with vodka, a nice neutral pick, while gin or tequila are good options if you want a more liquor-forward cocktail. Ilise thinks bourbon might be interesting. Hmm. Round Two coming up? Cheers!
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Click the photos to enlarge them and read the captions.

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Please visit Smitten Kitchen to view, download and/or print this excellent recipe.