Serves 8

Look for dried hibiscus blossoms in the bulk or herbal-tea section.
Step 1 is festive but optional.

1 tablespoon grated lemon peel
1 tablespoon agave nectar
8 cups boiling water
1 cup dried hibiscus blossoms
4 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick,
2-3 inches long
1 2- to 3-inch section vanilla pod
1/2 cup honey

1. Combine lemon peel and agave in a shallow dish. Dip the rim of each glass into mixture. Freeze until ready to serve. 2. Bring water to a boil in a large pot. In a bowl, combine hibiscus blossoms, cloves, cinnamon stick, and vanilla pod. Add to boiling water and boil for 1 minute, stirring. Remove from heat and stir in honey. Let steep for 1 hour. 3. Strain mixture into a pitcher, pressing on blossoms to extract all juices. Refrigerate until cold, or overnight. Pour into prepared glasses and serve.

PER SERVING: 68 cal, 0% fat cal, 0g fat, 0g sat fat, 0mg chol, 0g protein, 18g carb, 0g fiber, 5mg sodium