Spicy Ginger Spritzer

I've decided to eliminate some calories by declaring several nights a week cocktail-free. But I still need something yummy to drink when I get home from work. Sure, something like Pom and soda works, but I ran a cross a series of fizzy recipes in a recent issue of Bon Appetit.

This one is like a spicy ginger ale. You can mix the syrup up and store for a couple of weeks in the fridge. Then, mix up a soda at your leisure.

(And, yes, I'm betting they'd be good with vodka too.)

Spicy Ginger Spritzer

1 cup sugar
4 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
2 (3 inch) pieces fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
2 cups water
Lime juice
Soda water

Combine the sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, ginger and water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove pan from heat, cover and steep for 30 minutes.

Strain ginger syrup into a jar and chill.

Fill a collins glass with ice cubes. Add 2 tablespoons ginger syrup and a splash of lime juice. Top with soda water and stir to combine.