Surfside Seltzers (assorted Flavors) Recipe

Select flavors

Choose 2–3 fruit flavorings from the list (for a small batch, prepare 1 cup of fruit each). You can make single-flavor concentrates or blend two fruits (e.g., strawberry-basil, mango-ginger, cucumber-lime).

Place one cup of the chosen fruit (or combination) in a blender with 1 tablespoon of the simple syrup (or agave) and, if using, the lemon/lime zest and ginger. For herb-infused flavors, add the fresh herbs to the blender.

Blend on high until smooth (about 20–30 seconds). Taste the puree and add up to 1 additional teaspoon simple syrup if it's too tart. For very watery fruits (cucumber, watermelon), strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove excess water and seeds; press solids to extract flavorful liquid. You should end with about 1/2 cup of concentrated puree per flavor.

Optional: For a clearer, longer-lasting concentrate, simmer the puree in a small saucepan over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, then cool completely before using.

Chill: Ensure sparkling water is very cold. If you want to can or bottle, chill bottles/cans and a funnel; otherwise use tall glasses filled with ice.

Per-serving mixing (makes 1 serving ~1 cup)

In a tall glass or can, add 2 tablespoons (about 1 oz / 15 ml) of the chosen fruit concentrate. Add 1/2 tablespoon of simple syrup only if you prefer sweeter seltzers. Pour in 1 cup (240 ml) of chilled sparkling water gently to preserve carbonation. Add 1/2 teaspoon fresh lime juice if you want brightness. Stir gently with a bar spoon or give one slow roll to mix.

Batch mixing (makes ~6 servings)

In a large pitcher, combine 6 cups chilled sparkling water, 3 tablespoons simple syrup, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice and 1 teaspoon sea salt. Stir very gently to combine. Add 3/4 to 1 cup total fruit concentrate (adjust to taste) and swirl gently to distribute—do not vigorously stir to avoid losing fizz. Taste and adjust sweetness or concentrate amount.

Serve immediately over ice or straight from chilled cans. Garnish with a lime wheel and herb sprig corresponding to the flavor (mint for cucumber/mint or lime-mint, basil for berry-basil, etc.). If you need more carbonation, top with a splash of club soda instead of more concentrate.

Unopened: Fruit concentrates can be refrigerated up to 3 days in a sealed container. The base seltzer should be used chilled and consumed the same day for best fizz.

Make-ahead: For parties, prepare concentrates and keep chilled. Combine with sparkling water just before serving to preserve carbonation.

Alcohol option: For adult Surfside Seltzers, add 1–1.5 ounces (30–45 ml) vodka, white rum or tequila per serving when assembling.