Fig Orange After-Dinner Fizz

Fig brings a mellow, jam-like sweetness, while orange and balsamic vinegar add two different kinds of acidity. The combination tastes deeper than a standard citrus soda without needing a homemade syrup. Remove the fig's hard stem and mash it thoroughly; its seeds can remain or be strained out. Use the vinegar sparingly so the fruit stays at the center. This is a rounded, slightly tangy evening glass with enough character to sip slowly beside a small plate of snacks.

Ingredients

• 5 oz Sparkling water
• 1 fruit Ripe fig, stem removed
• 2 oz Orange juice
• 1 tsp Balsamic vinegar

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

Orange · a little vitamin C

Orange brings some vitamin C to the mix—a nutrient involved in collagen formation for healthy skin, alongside a rounded, honeyed fruit flavor from fig.

Fig with a little lift

The fig brings a rounded, honeyed fruit flavor, alongside orange and balsamic; the chilled carbonated mixer adds a crisp texture to that pairing.