Ruby red pomegranates have quite a history. In Buddhism they’re considered a blessed fruit. Muhammad believed that pomegranates would bring both emotional and physical peace because of their nutrients. Pomegranates are high in antioxidants, which are free-radical-fighting powerhouses. Their season runs from October through January, so enjoy them while they last. I use Veev in this cocktail, a liqueur made from the South American açaí berry, another fruit high in antioxidants, but feel free to substitute vodka.

Ingredients
• 3 tablespoons Veev
• 1/2 cup/125 ml sweetened pomegranate juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup crushed ice
• 10 fresh pomegranate seeds, for garnish
• 1 lime wedge, for garnish

Directions
1 In a cocktail mixer, mix together the Veev, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and ice.
2 Place the pomegranate seeds in a 4- to 6-ounce cocktail glass. Pour the pomegranate mixture into the glass and garnish with the lime.

Serves 1

---

Excerpted from I'm Dreaming of a Green Christmas by Anna Getty. Copyright © 2009 by Anna Getty. Excerpted by permission of Chronicle Books. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.