I’m writing this post from my childhood bedroom in Paris. I just arrived this morning for the holidays, after almost 2 years of not having been back. My parents visited us in Toronto last Christmas instead, and we met up for a family trip in Iceland over the summer, so this was the longest period of time I’ve ever not been home for. It always feel strange to set foot here when I’ve established most of life in the last decade in North America. But habits fall back in to place quickly, and I always have the best time reacquainting myself with the familiar territory. Today was a bit of a jet-lagged daze but still complete with a visit to my neighbourhood market (with chouquettes pastries if you’ve seen my Instagram feed!), a little walking around and a nice Sunday dinner. My mom made her classic rib of beef (the thickest cut of beef you’ll ever see!) that she simply broils for about 12 minutes or so on each side with a little oil, thyme, bay leaves, salt and pepper. We cut it into thin strips at a perfect medium rare, sprinkle some fleur de sel overtop and enjoyed it with a couple spoonfuls of haricots verts (otherwise known as super thin French green beans) tossed with good olive oil. Now that’s home!
In the meantime, here is a cocktail perfectly tailored for this time of year. I like to serve these in mason jar with paper straws — but sipping it out of a cocktail glass obviously does the trick too! — it’s simple, it’s festive red and green and so incredibly easy to make.You can make it a boozy cocktail or keep it alcohol-free, and it’s a pretty stellar accompaniment to sharp cheese and cured meats. The rosemary accent is quite subtle, but adds a little earthiness to this otherwise fruity drink.
And if you’re looking for a little more holiday cheer, don’t forget to enter my cookbook giveaway for the gorgeous and inspiring Lemonade Cookbook!
Festive Pomegranate and Rosemary Sparkler
Serves 2
1 cup pomegranate juice
1/4 cup fresh orange juice
3 tbsp agave syrup, or simple syrup
Sparkling water
2 tbsp pomegranate seeds
4 thin strips orange peel
2 rosemary sprigs
In bowl, combine pomegranate juice, orange juice and agave syrup. Divide between two 16-oz jars. Top each with sparkling water, half of the pomegranate seeds, orange peel and rosemary.
yummychunklet
December 15, 2013 at 8:32 pm (11 years ago)Very festive drink!
the caked crusader
December 16, 2013 at 1:42 am (11 years ago)Gorgeous colour – pomegranate always looks special!
Kristi @ Inspiration Kitchen
December 16, 2013 at 10:09 am (11 years ago)I love how fresh and festive this drink looks! Pomegranate is one of my favorites, and I’m always looking for a great holiday drink. Thanks for the fantastic idea!
Amy @ Elephant Eats
December 16, 2013 at 10:10 am (11 years ago)How awesome that you grew up in Paris! I hope you have a wonderful time while you’re there. This drink sound perfect, especially since I don’t drink alcohol 🙂
Shundara@SavyNaturalista
December 17, 2013 at 10:50 am (11 years ago)I know your so happy to be home! Especially in your childhood bedroom, I hope your having a great time! Lovely cocktail to start off the holidays 🙂
Natalie @ Tastes Lovely
December 17, 2013 at 10:55 am (11 years ago)These drinks look delicious. Perfect for the holidays. And how fun that you’re in Paris! Hope you have the best time.
Josefine {The Smoothie Lover}
December 17, 2013 at 11:54 am (11 years ago)It must be amazing to be “home” again. Especially if it is in Paris 😉 I’ve only been there once, but I must say: It is the most wonderful city. Lucky you. Enjoy your stay there
jennifer
December 18, 2013 at 7:25 am (11 years ago)Thank you! It’s definitely a beautiful time of year to be here — the festive lights only add to the charm of it all!
Pamela @ Brooklyn Farm Girl
December 18, 2013 at 2:13 pm (11 years ago)Love how fun and festive you made this. Would be great for holiday parties! Enjoy you time back in Paris!
Tandy | Lavender and Lime
December 30, 2013 at 1:53 am (11 years ago)This sounds so refreshing! Enjoy your time in Paris 🙂
jennifer
December 30, 2013 at 8:50 am (11 years ago)It definitely is — and it’s not too sweet, which is nice when you’re feasting on all of rich food!