Eat, Drink And Be Scary: Blood Orange Blackberry Fizz

If you want to avoid waking up with the after-effects of last night’s party on that gorgeous face of yours, a better-for-you choice would be a simple mix that features a pure spirit…

As All Hallows Eve creeps ever closer, the only thing scarier than the costumes you’ll see strolling down sidewalks and haunting city streets is all the hidden sugars you’ll find in those tempting cocktails at this year’s Halloween bash. While I’m a firm believer in eating and drinking whatever you feel called to, there’s no doubt that traditional cocktails pack a punch when it comes to sugar. And all that sugar can wreak havoc on more than just your energy levels and ability to get a good night’s sleep – sugary cocktails can take their toll on our skin, too. Along with the dehydrating effects of sugary alcoholic drinks, those colorful cocktails can make blood sugar levels spike, causing skin inflammation… which could lead to breakouts and acne. Scary stuff, indeed. If you want to avoid waking up with the after-effects of last night’s party on that gorgeous face of yours, a better-for-you choice would be a simple mix that features a pure spirit, such as good quality tequila; hydrating sparkling water; and a squeeze of fresh, antioxidant-rich fruit, like blood orange and blackberries. Sounds tasty, no? Best part is, it’s so easy to customize, you can make it with just about any citrus or berry you have on hand. Limes, lemons, raspberries… it’s all good. Read on for the recipe.

Blood Orange Blackberry Fizz

Serves 2.

Ingredients

4 oz good tequila, chilled

Small handful fresh blackberries

½ blood orange + 2 sliced blood orange rounds

Mandarin sparkling water, chilled

Sprigs of mint

Maldon sea salt, for the glass rims

Method

If you want salted rims, place Maldon salt on a small dish. Dip rims of the glasses in water, then in salt.

Divide blackberries between two glasses and muddle with a spoon or muddler. Slice the blood orange half in two and squeeze into the glasses. Add more to taste.

Divide tequila between the two glasses and pour over muddled blackberries and oranges. Top off with sparkling water and garnish with a slice of blood orange and a sprig of mint. Enjoy!