Homemade Strawberry Vodka and Lime Spritzers

Step 1: Vodka ... The most important thing is to try to get organic or fresh strawberries; ones that you know haven't been sprayed with pesticides. Usually ones from a local farms are pretty good. But, I like to clean mine with a vegetable wash, if possible, before making the vodka.

Step 2: Remove the stem and cut the strawberries in quarters. Add them to a a large jar with a good seal; or, I use a couple of mason jars. Anything that seals and 'keeps' out any air. Then, add the vodka, seal the jar; and lightly 'tilt and swirl' a couple of times to combine the fruit and vodka. Put in a dark, cool, dry place. I use my pantry; a kitchen cabinet also works good. Make sure to 'tilt and swirl' each day. You will have a light flavor in 3 days; or strong flavor in 7. Personally, It's ready after 5 days for me.

Step 3: The vodka will need to be strained before drinking. Some suggest using a cheese cloth for the first strain, which works well - but, I just use a mesh strainer, it works just fine. The second strain, I use a coffee filter. Just add the coffee filter right to the strainer; and, pour the vodka over that. It will get out any small seeds, etc; and, you will end up with a nice clear vodka ready to enjoy.

Step 4: Cocktail Time ... For each mason jar; add, 1 1/2 ozs of the strawberry vodka, 1/4 of the lime juice (or 1/2 lime juiced), and 1/2-3/4 cup sparkling water, (depending on how strong you like your cocktail); and plenty of ice of course.

Step 5: Finish, Serve, and ENJOY! ... Add a straw, a skewer of fresh strawberries, and a lime slice on the rim. The perfect party/BBQ cocktail.