I have never made jam. Ever. Not even the “easy” freezer strawberry jam that everyone says everyone can make. I’ve thought about it before. Last summer I contemplated it for all of one hour, and this year, I do believe the idea has resurfaced a few times. I mean I keep seeing all these posts of people getting fresh berries from farmers markets and well, it seems they all make jam. Me, well, I was inspired to make this amazing baked salmon dish with a fresh blueberry and balsamic glaze (see recipe below), but I have yet to feel motivated to turn our kitchen into a canning fiasco. BUT. I did make a cocktail with fresh blackberries. Does that count?

Put those fresh summer berries to use in this cocktail recipe and leave the jam making to everyone else

This might be one of the easiest “new” cooking things I’ve ever tried. And it’s delicious. I used blackberries but you could easily use other berries. For the cocktail itself, I used vodka but you do you. And no, you don’t have to add the club soda but I think it keeps it a bit lighter and refreshing served this way. Anyhoo, hoe this inspires you to do something with those fresh berries … something other than make jam ; ) LOL.Blackberry Vodka Cocktail

• 1 pint blackberries
• 2 cups water
• 2-4 TBS agave syrup, depending on how sweet you like things
• 1 lemon, squeezed
• Lemon peels, or slices, for garnish
• Club soda
• Ice

Bring water to a boil, add berries, agave and lemon juice. Simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Place in a glass ball jar and refrigerate. When you’re ready to make your cocktail: fill preferred glass size with ice, add equal parts vodka, blackberry syrup and club soda. Stir well and enjoy ; )

DISCLAIMER: Our recipes are just that, ours. Some are modified versions of dishes we’ve had elsewhere or old-favorites that contained animal proteins that we replaced with plant-based options, while others are a concentrated effort of trial and error. But all are intended to be altered by you and made to suit your tastes. So if you want more garlic or none at all, go for it. You do you ; ) Now for the serious part … periodically this site does offer health, nutrition and exercise information. The information provided is not intended as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice given by a licensed physician or other health-care professional. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, consult your physician and never delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have read on this site. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk.