Citrus and Pomegranate Seed Cocktail

The colours of pomegranate seeds and citrus fruits match Lunar New Year traditions, and both are in season right now. This simple yet flavourful dessert is a great palate cleanser to end your New Year’s feast!

1 red grapefruit
4 mandarin oranges
2 tangerines
2 Minneola oranges
1 lemon
1 small piece of ginger, sliced thinly
4 cloves
1 whole star anise
1 cup (250 mL) pomegranate seeds

Slice skin off all citrus fruits. Working over a bowl to catch juices, cut out segments from between membranes. Squeeze husks to get all remaining juice.

Add ginger, spices, and pomegranate seeds. Mix well and cover; steep for 1 hour.

To serve, spoon fruit into martini glasses. Strain juice and pour over each glass.

Serves 4.

Each serving contains: 169 calories; 3 g protein; 2 g total fat (0 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 41 g carbohydrates; 8 g fibre; 10 mg sodium

source: "Celebrate the Lunar New Year",  alive #340, February 2011