Soda Recipe

Fill a tall glass with 1 cup of ice (or to preference).

Add the simple syrup (2 tablespoons) into the glass. If using a sugar-free sweetener, dissolve according to package directions.

Pour in the fresh citrus juice (1 tablespoon) to brighten the flavor.

Add your chosen flavoring (about 1 teaspoon). If using flavored syrup, pour it in. If using muddled fruit or herbs, refer to the Flavoring options section directions first and add the prepared mix.

Slowly pour 2 cups of cold club soda or sparkling water down the side of the glass to preserve carbonation. Stir gently once or twice with a long spoon to combine — avoid vigorous stirring to keep fizz.

Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity: add up to 1 tablespoon more simple syrup or another 1/2 tablespoon citrus juice if needed.

Using Flavored Syrup

Measure ~1 teaspoon flavored syrup (grenadine, ginger, or fruit syrup) and add directly to the glass before pouring soda.

Using Muddled Fruit

Place 2 tablespoons of fresh fruit (berries, mango, or peach) in a mixing glass. Muddle gently with a muddler or the back of a spoon until broken down and juicy. Spoon the fruit and juice into the serving glass before adding soda.

Using Herb Infusion

Lightly clap or muddle 1 teaspoon of fresh herbs (mint, basil, or rosemary) to release oils. Add the herbs to the glass before the soda. If you prefer less texture, bruise the herbs in a small bowl with the simple syrup and then strain the syrup into the glass.

Using Bitters

Add 2 dashes of aromatic or citrus bitters to the glass and stir gently to incorporate. Bitters add complexity and reduce the need for added sugar.

Garnish with a citrus wheel on the rim, a sprig of mint tucked into the drink, and/or a couple of fresh berries or a thin cucumber slice.

Serve immediately while fizzy. If preparing in a pitcher for a group, mix syrup, citrus, and flavoring in the pitcher, then add chilled sparkling water just before serving and gently stir.