Sparkling Red Cherry Punch

If you’re looking something easy and festive for a holiday party or family gathering, here’s a great idea. Stir together healthful tart cherry juice and orange juice, then punch it up with orange liqueur and sparkling wine. The recipe is from the Cherry Marketing Institute; for many more recipes and information about the health benefits of cherries, check out its website.

Sparkling Red Cherry Punch

Yield: 8 servings

1 1/2 cups tart cherry juice
1/2 cup orange juice
1/2 cup orange liqueur (such as Grand Mariner, Curacao or Cointreau)
1 bottle (750ml) sparkling wine

In a large pitcher, combine cherry juice, orange juice and liqueur. Chill at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours. Just before serving, stir cherry mixture. Tilt pitcher; slowly pour in champagne. Stir gently. Serve in champagne flutes or wine glasses.
Tip: for a festive garnish, add a pitted tart cherry and a quartered slice of orange on a cocktail pick to each glass.

Per serving: 63 calories, no fat, 8g carbohydrate, no protein, no fiber, 3mg sodium.