Here is a fresh use for peak-of-summer tomatoes. Soft, juicy tomatoes work best, as they expel more water. Tomatoes’ lycopene content catapults them to the next nutritional level. Studies show lycopene has anti-inflammatory properties—which is why this ephemeral fruit may help decrease your risk of heart disease and cancer.  St-Germaine adds warm floral notes while fresh lemon rounds out a light, citrusy flavor profile. And with its easy-drinking nature, you’ll be sipping on this refreshing cocktail late into summer.

Ingredients

2 C. fresh tomatoes

½ cup filtered water

3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice

3 oz. simple syrup

½ tsp. kosher salt

9 oz. vodka

1.5 oz. St-Germaine (elderflower liqueur)

Instructions

Put tomatoes and ½ cup of water in a blender and blend on high until smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Pour through a fine sieve into a pitcher; discard the solids

Mix in lemon juice, simple syrup and salt

Add the 1/3 cup tomato mixture, 3 oz. of vodka and .5 oz. of St-Germaine to cocktail shaker.  Fill with ice: cover and shake well.

Strain evenly into 2 glasses.

Repeat twice with remaining ingredients

Garnish with tomatoes and fresh basil.

Thanks to www.cookinglight.com