A Boozy Reason to Save Your Strawberry Tops

Strawberries are in season, which means you’ve probably got a couple pints in your kitchen right now. Whether you’re eating them as is or using them in a recipe, you always need to remove the green tops from strawberries first. Instead of throwing those tops in the compost or trash, I’ve got a better idea for you: Steep them in vodka.

Yes, that’s right — if you toss your strawberry tops into a Mason jar with vodka, let the mixture sit for two days, and then strain, you’ll be rewarded with a blush-hued vodka with the perfect hint of strawberry flavor.

Once you have your infused vodka, you can use it in any number of cocktails. The author gives a recipe for a delicious-sounding “Blushing Mule,” with ginger beer and lime.

Make this vodka tonight and it’ll be ready by Friday for weekend imbibing.

→ Get the Recipe: Strawberry Top Vodka from Wit and Vinegar