Nightshade Free Cranberry Ginger Cooler
Tart cranberry, zesty lime, and a kick of fresh ginger come together in this sparkling cooler that feels genuinely refreshing and a little bit fancy. It's the kind of drink that looks like it came from a cocktail bar but comes together in your own kitchen with just a handful of clean, simple ingredients. Since nightshade-free eating cuts out a surprising number of packaged beverages and flavored drinks that sneak in unexpected additives, having a go-to homemade option like this is a real win. The ginger syrup is the secret weapon here — simmering fresh ginger slices with water and maple syrup coaxes out a warm, spicy depth that bottled ginger drinks just can't match. Unsweetened cranberry juice keeps things bright and tangy without any added sugars or mystery ingredients, and the sparkling water gives it that satisfying fizz. A squeeze of fresh lime ties everything together, and the optional mint garnish makes it feel like a special occasion even on a Tuesday. Make the ginger syrup ahead of time and keep it in the fridge so you can pour yourself a glass whenever the mood strikes.
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Learn more →Ingredients
4 servings
For the ginger syrup
- 1 cup 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened)
- ½ cup water
- 3 tbsp maple syrup
- 2-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
For the cooler
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 2 cups sparkling water
- 2 cups ice cubes
For serving
- 4 sprigs fresh mint (optional)
- 4 thin lime slices (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the water, maple syrup, and sliced ginger in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the maple syrup dissolves. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, until the syrup is fragrant and the ginger flavor is pronounced.
- 2
Remove from the heat and let the ginger syrup steep for 15 minutes, until cooled to room temperature. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher, pressing the ginger slices to extract as much liquid as possible; discard the solids.
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