This year for Christmas, instead of giving out standard gifts, I decided to make baskets of home made goods and snacks. First of all, no one in my family really needs stuff. Often, they just ask for consumables anyways, so I thought that this year I would go all out and make wonderful collections of things to send out.

One of the things on my list was this Ginger Lime Simple Syrup from Epicurious.

I’ve made a number of simple syrups in the last year. They are simple, delicious, and oh so pretty. I got rave reviews back from my friends and family on this one. Some people mixed it with tequila, some with gin and tonics, some simply with iced tea. I think this would be a great addition to any mixologist’s cabinet. It is incredibly simple, and if you can find some cute little containers, this makes a great gift.

But more importantly, it will help you make some delicious cocktails this summer! I know that I’ve become obsessed with gin as my summer liquor in the last few years. Some syrup, some gin, and some seltzer makes a pretty great summer refresher.

Ginger Lime Simple Syrup

Yield: Makes approximately 1 1/2 cups

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup water
• 3-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and cut into chunks
• zest of 2 limes

Directions

Combine the sugar, water, ginger, and lime zest in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is clear. Turn off the heat and allow the ginger and lime to steep in the syrup for 3 hours. Strain the syrup into an airtight glass jar. Store for up to 1 month in the refrigerator.