Stone Fruit Mocktails

This refreshing drink gets it fruity flavor from the  mashed fruit,  a hint of heat from the jalapeno and a hit of fresh from the mint.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Marinate time: 30 minutes or several hours

1 medium ripe Chilean nectarine, peeled, pitted and mashed

1 large ripe Chilean plum, peeled, pitted and mashed

1/2 cup chopped and mashed Chilean grapes

2 large sprigs fresh mint, torn into pieces

1 small jalapeno pepper, seeded and thinly sliced (optional)

Lime flavored sparkling water

Place fruit in a medium l bowl and add mint and jalapeno (if using); cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for flavors to blend. (This can be prepared several hours in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to use.) Remove mint sprigs and most of the jalapeno slices. Place a large spoonful of the fruit mixture into ice filled glasses and pour sparkling water over the top Serve immediately.  Makes 6 servings.

Recipe tips:

·      Make the mashed fruit mixture several hours ahead so you’ll be ready to assemble drinks easily and without any mess.

·      The jalapeno adds a nice flavor, but feel free to leave it out if you don’t want the heat.

·      Add a few mint leaves and jalapeno slices and fresh fruit slices to each glass for a pretty mocktail.

·      To make this a cocktail, add rum or tequila in place of some of the fizzy water.