Recipe: Fizzy Blueberry Ginger Mocktail

If your go-to non-boozy spritzer is seltzer with a splash of fruit juice, then this blueberry ginger sparkler is one to keep on your radar. It’s full-on fizzy and hits your tongue with subtle, fruity flavor followed by a warm notes of ginger. Here’s how to make this refreshing, booze-free drink.

One of the easiest ways to make a minimalist mocktail is with an infused simple syrup. For this recipe you’ll want to plan ahead a day — or even just a few hours in advance.

Make the ginger simple syrup: Add about 1/4 cup sliced ginger (per one cup of sugar) to the simmering water. Remove the pan from the heat and steep for about 30 minutes. Strain the syrup into a jar and discard the ginger. The simple syrup can be made up to two weeks in advance.

If you’ve already got simple syrup on hand, you can still add some ginger flavor. Place one cup of the syrup along with 1/4 cup sliced ginger into a measuring cup, muddle, and then strain to remove any fibrous bits.

Make it in advance: How To Make Simple Syrup for Cocktails

For each drink, gently muddle about 2 tablespoons of fresh blueberries in the bottom of a tall glass. Add ice and pour in one to 2 teaspoons of ginger simple syrup. (You can always add more to taste.) Top with plain seltzer and stir together.

It’s time to go beyond seltzer, soda, and juice — shaking up booze-free drinks that actually feel fancy and fun is easier than you think. This series on sober celebrations will show you how to whip up super-impressive mocktails with just three basic ingredients.