The Happiest Hour {Honey Rosemary Ginger Gin Fizz}

Given that it's the Tuesday prior to Thanksgiving, I'm sure you all are deep in menu planning and grocery shopping. But, I bet there is one thing most of you forgot…the signature cocktail. No need to worry though. I'm here to bring you a savory, sweet and flavorful cocktail perfect for acompanying the delicious meal you have planned. After making an easy honey rosemary simple syrup, all you have to do is mix with gin and ginger ale for a delicious libation you can sip on throughout the day. Here's the recipe…

:: Honey Rosemary Simple Syrup Ingredients ::
1/2 Cup Water
1 Cup White Sugar
1 Tablespoon Honey
1 Sprig Rosemary

:: Honey Rosemary Simple Syrup Directions ::
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Stir continuously over medium heat until sugar is completely dissolved. Let Cool.

:: Honey Rosemary Ginger Gin Fizz Ingredients ::
2 Tablespoons Honey Rosemary Simple Syrup
1/2 Cup Gin
3/4 Cup Ginger Ale

:: Honey Rosemary Ginger Gin Fizz Directions ::
Combine ingredients in a glass over ice. Stir to combine and garnish with a rosemary sprig.

The Happiest Hour {Sparkling Rosemary Gin}

Ever since I planted my herb garden last week, I've been finding ways to incorporate them into as many dishes and cocktails as possible. I've used the orange mint in a mojito, the chives atop a ricotta flatbread,  the parsley in homemade white bean dip, and now I'm using the rosemary in a sparkling gin cocktail. Artesian cocktails are making a huge comeback with the refined elegant trend. Think less pre made juice blends and more organic flavors like herbs and natural sweeteners. This sparkling rosemary gin concoction is just the ticket. It's got the perfect blend of savory and sweet with a mix of wild honey and fresh rosemary sprigs. I'll be sipping on this beauty till I run out of rosemary it's so good! Here's the recipe...

:: Ingredients ::
2 oz Gin
1 Tablespoon Wild Honey
1 Sprig Fresh Rosemary
Club Soda

:: Directions ::
In the bottom of a cocktail shaker, slightly muddle rosemary with honey. Add gin and shake. Pour over ice, top with club soda, and garnish with rosemary sprig.


Have a great weekend!

Indulge In {Spring Pea & Herb Risotto}

Hands down, Italian is my favorite food. One of the things I like most about the style is that I can learn one dish and easily change the flavors to make something completely different. A great example of this is risotto. The base is the same, but it can taste completely different depending on what goes into it. During the winter, I like to make it a bit heavier with crispy pancetta and mushrooms. But during the spring, I like to brighten the flavors with green peas and fresh herbs. Also given the season, heavy cream isn't my favorite ingredient. This recipe is lightened up with greek yogurt for added creaminess. Perfect for serving for week night dinners or group dinner parties, I can't wait to make this dish again. Here's the recipe.

:: Ingredients ::
4 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth
1 Tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 Cup Finely Chopped Shallots
2 1/4 Cups Arborio Rice
1/2 Cup Dry White Wine
2 Cups Frozen Peas
3 Tablespoons Fresh Parsley, minced
3 Tablespoons Chives, minced
1 Tablespoon Rosemary, minced
1 Cup Grated Parmesan
6 oz Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt

:: Directions ::
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add shallots and cook until soft, approximately 2-3 minutes. Add the rice and cook approximately 2 minutes.
2. Add the wine and stir until evaporated, approximately 2 minutes.
3. Add 1/2 cup chicken broth, stirring continuously until absorbed. Repeat until risotto is tender and creamy.
4. Add frozen peas and stir till heated throughout. Remove from heat.
5. Combine parsley, chives, and rosemary in a bowl. Add all but 1 tablespoon to the risotto along with the parmesan cheese and greek yogurt. Stir to combine.
6. Serve immediately topping with additional herbs and cheese.