Green Apple Sparkler

A light, refreshing, and non-alcoholic drink that can be served on New Year’s Eve to both children and adults, this Green Apple Sparkler from CHOW.com adds a nice touch to the festivities!

Green Apple Sparkler

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup water

2/3 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 7 to 8 medium limes)

1 medium Granny Smith apple

Ice

3 3/4 cups club soda, chilled

1 medium lime, cut into 6 wedges

Preparation

At least 4 hours and up to 3 days before making the drink, bring the sugar and water to a simmer in a small saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice. Let cool to room temperature, then transfer to a 1-quart container.

Halve, core, and cut the apple into 1/8-inch-thick slices. Place the apple slices in the lime syrup and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate until the apple flavor infuses the syrup, at least 4 hours or up to 3 days.

When ready to serve, strain the mixture through a mesh strainer set over a medium bowl or small pitcher; reserve the apple slices for the garnish. Fill a 10-ounce collins glass with ice, add 3 ounces of the syrup, top with 5 ounces of the club soda, and stir gently with a long spoon or straw. Garnish with a lime wedge and a few reserved apple slices. Repeat with the remaining ingredients to make 6 drinks.

*Recipe and image courtesy of CHOW.com.*