Picture this: You step out onto the porch and into the soft evening air. Your arms are bare for the first time since last summer, and the sun hangs low enough to cast a beam of golden light across your face. The aroma of cherry blossoms drifts through the breeze, and the effervescence of a cold beverage bubbles in your hand.
What are you sipping on? Well, let me introduce you to the Cherry Lime Zinger of your dreams.
This spring, I vowed to indulge in the finer things of life. The warm California weather woke my bones from a long and frigid winter and, suddenly, the whole world was a bit brighter. Now, if you know me, you know “the finer things in life” almost always include a thirst-quenching beverage within arm’s reach.
And, if I’m being honest, there’s a good chance the Cherry Lime Zinger will be filling my pitcher long after spring has ended. This light and airy beverage encapsulates everything we love about produce: fresh, wholesome goodness.
Take it from me—this is one springtime beverage that spells increased sales in the produce aisle. Plus, it is easy to prepare a non-alcoholic version that is perfect for in-store sampling. Once shoppers catch wind of the libation, they will be running toward your stores faster than you can say Cherry Lime Zinger.
1½ cups pitted fresh cherries
⅓ cup water
2 tbsp sugar
½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
½ cup vodka
2 cups cold lime seltzer water
Crushed ice for serving
Lime wedges and fresh cherries for garnish
Time: 1 hr 15 min
Servings: 4
1. To make the cherry syrup, combine fresh cherries, water, and sugar and cook over medium-low heat. Simmer until the cherries are soft and bursting, about 6–8 minutes.
2. Pour the mixture into a blender, covering with a towel to prevent hot liquid from escaping. Blend until the mixture is puréed and let cool.
3. Combine ⅓ cup of the cherry syrup with the lime juice and vodka. Refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour.
4. To serve, pour the mixture into four glasses over the crushed ice. Finish with a splash of seltzer water and garnish with a wedge of lime and a fresh cherry. Enjoy!
Inspired by How Sweet Eats 
