Beth Nydick, co-author of Clean Cocktails is back with us this week as we get ready to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day this weekend! This clean, green, cocktail uses the power and flavors of lemon and basil to create a beautiful green color (that won’t turn you off) and actually REDUCE inflammation in the body! Plus I love it’s name: Spring Awakening! Yes please!

Basil is loaded with antioxidants, which help your body remove toxins and can protect your white blood cells. And has even been found to help fight cancer! On top of all that it’s antibacterial AND contains what’s known as adaptogens - which are elements that help your body manage stress! Just in case the gin wasn’t doing it for ya!

Then there’s the lemon which is also antibacterial and antiviral! Loaded with Vitamin C lemon supports weight loss, detoxifies the body and reduces inflammation. These are the elements that I LOVE about Clean Cocktails. Because you really can find balance in a healthy lifestyle.

Check out the video and grab the recipe below! Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Salute!

Spring Awakening
Serves 1

Recommended Barware:
rock glasses

1 small bunch basil leaves
3 oz. vodka or gin
1/2 oz. basil syrup
Zest of 1/2 a lemon
Ice
Seltzer water
Garnish: basil leaves & lemon twist

For the Basil Syrup:
1 C. honey
1 C. filtered water
1 C. fresh basil leaves

Basil Syrup (Beth’s “quick & dirty” version): Combine all of the ingredients in a Vitamin, puree until smooth. Strain into ice cube trays and freeze for later use! (Get the full recipe in Clean Cocktails).

Spring Awakening: Muddle most of the basil leaves with the vodka/gin, basil syrup and lemon zest on a cocktail shaker. Add the ice and shake until your hands get cold.

Strain the contents of the shaker into an ice-filled rock glass and top off with seltzer. Garnish with remaining basil leaves and a lemon twist and serve.