Winter is in full swing and we don't know about you, but after the holiday season is over we start counting down the days until warmer weather will arrive. The cold days often send us daydreaming of basking in the warm, golden sun on a tropical island oasis, sipping a drink served in a coconut. This drink will energize you (body and mind), and transport you to a sunny place in the not-so-distant future. Earthy and spicy turmeric is the perfect match for juicy pineapple and zippy ginger. Not only is it a flavor party but it is beaming with health benefits! This spirit-free cocktail is loaded with antioxidants, vitamin C, and even contains anti-inflammatory properties. The multi-faceted turmeric is an important part of Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system of natural healing that is widely practiced today! Enjoy this drink just as it is, or if you're feeling frisky---a little tequila never hurts.

pineapple-turmeric agua fresca

makes 6 servings

ingredients

4 cups fresh pineapple chunks (1 medium pineapple, peeled and cubed)
4 cups coconut water, divided
2 tbsp agave nectar
1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
2" piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
2 tsp Spicewalla Turmeric Powder
Pinch of salt
Topo Chico sparkling mineral water

preparation:
1. Add pineapple, 2 cups of coconut water and grated ginger to a blender and blend well (you may need to work in batches depending on the size of your blender!)
2. Strain pineapple juice mixture through a fine mesh sieve or filter bag to remove the pulp. You can squeeze the bag if needed to get all the juice through! Discard the solids.
3. Stir in remaining 2 cups of coconut water, lime juice, agave, turmeric powder and salt. Use a whisk to combine ingredients completely.
4. Fill your glass with ice. Add ~2 oz of Topo Chico to each glass and pour aqua fresca to fill the rest of the glass.
5. Optional: Garnish with pineapple leaves, lime wheel, and/or a dusting of turmeric on top.

Hint: If you're feeling really tropical, toss some ice in the blender before assembling to get a fluffy shaved/crushed ice situation!
Pro tip: A couple glugs of blanco tequila would be absolutely delicious in this refreshing drink!