Not so very long ago I was at a restaurant which featured a splendid selection of house-made sodas.  Every one on the list sounded tempting but the moment I saw the words “pineapple” and “sage” I knew I only had one choice.  

The fusion was everything I could have hoped for.  Sage has long been one of my favorite herbs.  I love the subtle tones it brings. 

I was determined to create an at home version of this soda.  Success!

This soda is incredibly simple and is the perfect drink to make ahead of time.  It also makes an impeccable accompaniment to, well, just about anything grilled. 

It all begins with a syrup. 

To make the sage syrup I used a muddler to combine the chopped sage with the sugar.  This releases all of the essential oils and provides a more intense sage flavor.  

Water is added to the sugar and sage, and boiled until the sugar is dissolved and the syrup has slightly thickened.  

Pineapple meets the blender and sparkling water tops it off. 

Pineapple Sage Soda might just give Lemonade a run for her money.  

Sincerely, 

   Pedantic Foodie

Pineapple Sage Soda 

serves 6 / recipe inspired by Graffiato’s 

• one medium pineapple, cubed (about four cups)
• 1/4 cup chopped sage 
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup filtered water 
• 1 liter sparkling water 
• ice 

Add chopped sage to sugar and use a muddler to mash the sage into the sugar.  Place the sugar and sage mixture into a small saucepan and add the filtered water.  Bring to a boil over medium heat.  After the sugar has dissolved, allow the syrup to boil for five minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.  

Cut the pineapple into cubes and place in the pitcher of a blender.  Add sage syrup - do not strain the leaves.  Pulse the mixture until the pineapple is thoroughly broken down.  

Strain the syrup and pineapple puree through a fine mesh strainer.  Allow the syrup to cool.

To make the sodas: fill each glass to one-third with the pineapple sage syrup and then add sufficient ice.   Finally, top it off with sparkling water.  Serve immediately, preferably with cute paper straws.  Enjoy!