Nectarine Thyme Dinner Break

Nectarine softens grapefruit's bitterness without taking it away, while thyme brings a dry herbal note. The fruit needs to be ripe enough to mash easily; firm slices look good but contribute little sweetness. A small thyme sprig is sufficient, particularly if you leave it in the glass. This spritz is more bittersweet than a peach cooler and has a fresh citrus finish. It's a useful option for the dinner table when you want fruit flavor without a sugary cocktail feel.

Ingredients

• 5 oz Sparkling water
• 1/2 fruit Ripe nectarine, pitted and sliced
• 2 oz Grapefruit juice
• 1 small sprig Fresh thyme

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

Grapefruit · a little vitamin C

With grapefruit beside nectarine and thyme, this glass offers a little vitamin C for protecting cells from oxidative damage.

Make room for thyme

Thyme gives the nectarine and grapefruit a gently savory aroma—an aromatic pairing to serve freshly mixed, while the bubbles are lively.

If your medicine advises avoiding grapefruit, choose a different recipe or check with your pharmacist.