Not Without Salt

Here is my plan for the Summer – me, comfortable chair, kiddie pool, feet dangling, kids content, green grass, flourishing garden, sitting, big pregnant belly and an endless pitcher of this mint, basil, cucumber and lime fizz.

So basically what we have here is a variation of a virgin mojito – if you aren’t growing a child in your womb currently then please add a splash of rum – it really does make it all the more delicious. But even without it, this little mock-tail has the power to wash away the Summer heat in one refreshing gulp. Fellow Seattleites – I know what you are thinking. What Summer heat?! It’s been rainy non-stop. Well, this pregnant lady is one giant furnace and I’ve started the Summer cool-down ritual already. Don’t ask me what I’m going to do with the temperatures actually get above 65*.

Really I couldn’t be more thrilled for Summer time. My boys are at such fun ages to just spend hours playing outside digging, splashing and examining our little garden. We have trips to the beach planned, incredible classes to teach, strawberries to nibble on right off the vine and at the end of all of that we will welcome our sweet baby girl into our joyous family. It’s the first time in my life where I am so excited to see Summer fly by – each day that passes is one more day closer to meeting my baby.

In the meantime I will anticipate her arrival and cool down with this fizzy beverage.

Mint, Basil, Cucumber & Lime Fizz

serves 1 very hot and thirsty pregnant lady

2 large basil leaves

4 mint leaves

3 small slices of cucumber

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1/2 – 1 tablespoon simple syrup (recipe below)

Muddle all these ingredients in a large glass. Really smash up the cucumber and herbs to release their fragrance. Fill with soda water. Taste and adjust to your liking. Garnish with lime wedge and more cucumber.

Simple Syrup

1 cup sugar

1 cup water

Combine ingredients in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer. Turn off the heat once all the sugar has dissolved. Cool.

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