Blood Orange Fennel Social Hour

Blood orange supplies a rich citrus flavor, fennel adds a faint anise note, and mint makes the aroma fresher. Slice the fennel very thinly so a small amount can contribute flavor without being awkward in the glass. Press the mint lightly rather than shredding it. This is more aromatic than a straightforward orange soda and less bitter than grapefruit. Serve it well chilled, with the herbs in the background and the blood orange remaining the clearest flavor.

Ingredients

• 5 oz Sparkling water
• 2 oz Blood orange juice
• 1 tbsp Fennel bulb, very thinly shaved
• 4 leaf Mint leaves

Make it

1. Prepare the fruit and herbs as listed. Mash soft fruit to release juice; lightly press herbs or thin ginger slices without shredding them.
2. Add the still juices and stir. Strain out seeds, skins or herb pieces if you prefer a smoother texture.
3. Pour in the chilled sparkling water slowly and stir once. Serve immediately, with ice if you like.

Benefits

Blood orange · a little vitamin C

With blood orange beside fennel and mint, this glass offers a little vitamin C for protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Make room for mint

Mint gives the blood orange and fennel a fresh, cooling aroma—an aromatic pairing to serve freshly mixed, while the bubbles are lively.