There’s something about the experience of drinking a soda that makes it so hard to quit. The refreshing first sip. The ice clinking in the glass. The fizz. It’s hard to deny that sodas provide “ahhhhhh” moments. The soda drinking experience is truly classic. And soda is the perfect accompaniment to a juicy burger or pizza. But what about people who are trying to cut back on their sugar intake, you ask? Our answer is DIY! Yes. You can make your own soda. Here are two super easy soda recipes that offer up fresh flavors. Serve with homemade pizza for a delicious DIY menu.
Basil, Lemon, and Strawberry Soda
Ingredients
6 fresh basil leaves
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
4 large strawberries, plus 1 (sliced thin) for garnish
1 tablespoon raw sugar
1 pinch of kosher salt
Ice cubes
¾ cup soda water
Directions
In a pint glass, mix together basil, lemon juice, 6 whole strawberries, sugar, and salt. Using a muddler, muddle ingredients until sugar dissolves. Add ice cubes and soda water; mix until chilled. Fill a 12 ounce glass with ice. Strain soda from the pint glass into the new glass. Garnish with strawberry slices. Makes 1 serving.
Homemade Ginger Ale
Ingredients
½ cup peeled, sliced ginger
½ cup honey
½ water
4 cups club soda
Fresh mint
Ice
Directions
Place ginger, honey, and water into a small saucepan; stir. Turn heat to medium and bring mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove saucepan from heat, and let mixture cool. Once cooled, strain the mixture into a large pitcher. Add club soda, fresh mint, and ice; stir. Makes 4 servings.