Homemade Holiday: Beverage Edition
The holiday season is the perfect time to add a little extra magic to your gatherings. One of the easiest ways to impress your guests this season? Christmas tree-inspired rosemary ice cubes! These simple, aromatic additions will elevate any drink and leave your guests in awe. Follow this guide to create your own festive ice cubes and bring a touch of holiday charm to your beverages.
What You’ll Need:
Fresh rosemary sprigs (about 3-4 sprigs)
Ice cube tray
Water (filtered or tap)
Pellegrino from Casale al Mare
OR Shandy from Sandy Jack’s Deli
Optional: Lemon slices, lime slices, dried orange slices, or berries for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rosemary
Wash your fresh rosemary sprigs thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue.
Pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Fill the Ice Cube Tray
Place a few sprigs of rosemary into each compartment of the ice cube tray.
Break the sprigs into smaller pieces if necessary to fit comfortably.
3. Add Optional Ingredients (Optional)
For extra flavor and visual appeal, add a slice of lemon, lime, dried orange, or a few berries to each compartment alongside the rosemary.
4. Add Water
Slowly pour water into each compartment of the tray, ensuring the rosemary and any additional ingredients are fully submerged.
Be careful not to overfill the compartments.
5. Freeze
Place the tray in the freezer and allow it to freeze for 4-6 hours, or until the cubes are completely solid.
For the best results, prepare the ice cubes the night before your gathering.
6. Pop Them Out and Store
Once frozen, pop the rosemary ice cubes out of the tray.
Store them in a ziplock bag or an airtight container in the freezer until you’re ready to use them.
Serving Suggestions
These rosemary ice cubes are versatile and can be used to enhance a variety of drinks:
Non-Alcoholic: Add them to lemonade, iced tea, or sparkling water for a refreshing twist.
Cocktails: Impress your guests by using these cubes in drinks like gin and tonic, mojitos, or sangria.
Pro Tips
Use filtered water for clearer ice cubes that showcase the rosemary and other ingredients beautifully.
Pair your festive ice cubes with sparkling Pellegrino from Casale al Mare for a touch of sophistication or a shandy from Sandy Jack’s Deli for a more laid-back holiday vibe.
Final Touch of Elegance
These rosemary ice cubes are not only functional but also double as a stunning garnish, adding a touch of holiday cheer to every sip. With minimal effort, you can transform your beverages into a memorable part of your holiday festivities.
Let’s toast to a homemade holiday that’s both beautiful and delicious. Cheers!
