Citrus fizz cooler with fresh mint and ginger

MAKES 6 TO 8 SERVINGS (DOUBLES EASILY)

No alcohol is needed with the tang of this cooler, but if you'd like to add some, rum or tequila are good choices. Use organic fruit if possible.

½ cup fresh spearmint leaves

1 (1½-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced

1 medium orange, thinly sliced

2 lemons, thinly sliced

2 limes, thinly sliced

8 large sprigs fresh spearmint

1 large bottle bubbly mineral water

1 large bottle tonic water (sugar-free, if preferred)

Ice

In the bottom of a pitcher large enough to hold all the ingredients, combine the ½ cup of mint leaves and the ginger. Crush them together with a wooden spoon to release their fragrances.

Then garnish each of six or eight glasses with a thin slice each of orange, lemon and lime and a sprig of mint.

Combine the remaining fruits with the mineral water and tonic in the pitcher. Stir to lightly bruise the fruits and blend in the ginger and crushed mint. Add ice to the glasses and pour.