A Sage-Inspired Cocktail from Bufalina's “Lido”

With sage on my mind lately (see: my latest dye project), I couldn't resist sharing one of my favorite ways to enjoy it — a Tuscan Gin and Tonic from Bufalina, my favorite artisan pizza spot. This recipe comes from their newest book Lido, equal parts lifestyle book and cookbook exploring the vibrant world of the Italian beach club. (Shared here with their permission.)

The last time we ate outside at Bufalina, I had this gin and tonic while my husband had a Negroni — and honestly, the sage garnish alone made me want to recreate it at home.

Tuscan Gin and Tonic

Herb Simple Syrup

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup water

• 4 fresh sage leaves

• 2 fresh rosemary sprigs

Gin and Tonic

• 2 ounces dry gin

• ¾ ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

• ½ ounce Herb Simple Syrup

• 4 juniper berries

• 1 (5-ounce) can Fever-Tree tonic water

• 3 lemon slices

• 1 fresh rosemary sprig

To make the herb simple syrup: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, water, sage, and rosemary and bring to a boil. Adjust the heat to medium-low and simmer until the sugar dissolves, stirring occasionally, 1 to 2 minutes. Let cool to room temperature, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar, discarding the herbs. Cover and refrigerate for up to 1 week.

To make the gin and tonic: Fill a large wineglass almost to the top with ice. Add the gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and juniper berries, and stir continuously until well chilled, about 30 seconds. Pour in the tonic water and stir once in an upward motion. Garnish with lemon slices and a rosemary sprig. (In the photo, it was garnished with lemon thyme and sage.)

Recipe from Lido by Bufalina, shared with permission. Get your own copy of Lido