Labor Day Refreshing Cherry Spritzer
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 2 1x
Description
Gluten-Free
Ingredients
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- 2 tbsp. honey
- 2 tsp. freshly squeezed orange juice
- 2 tbsp. fresh orange zest, plus more for garnish
- 4 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 2 cups (480 ml) fresh cherries, pitted
- 1 tsp. Barlean'schia seeds
- 2 cups (480 ml) sparkling water
Instructions
- Juice cherries using a juicer or a blender into a large glass.
- Strain through a sieve, pushing juice through with a spatula. Discard cherry solids.
- Pour cherry juice into a large pitcher. Add remaining ingredients; mix well to combine.
- Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
- Serve chilled with additional orange zest, if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Juice
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 120
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Frequently Asked Questions
What role do chia seeds play in this spritzer?
The recipe calls for 1 tsp of Barlean’s chia seeds stirred into the cherry juice mixture along with the honey, orange juice, zest, and fresh basil. Chia seeds add a subtle texture and a boost of fiber and omega-3s — they’ll absorb liquid and swell slightly during the 1-hour refrigeration before serving.
Why does the spritzer need to chill for an hour before serving?
The recipe instructs refrigerating the mixed pitcher for 1 hour before serving so the honey fully dissolves, the basil infuses the juice, and the chia seeds hydrate. Add the 2 cups (480 ml) of sparkling water after chilling (or just before pouring) to preserve the carbonation.
Yeah, 5 minuts preparation time! I like it!