Sandra Lee's Crowd-Pleasing Holiday Recipes

Lisa Shin

When she's not busy starring on multiple Food Network shows (hello, Emmy!) or writing cookbooks—her 25th, Every Dish Delivers, comes out this spring—Sandra Lee throws a heck of a party. Come the holidays, inviting family and friends to the Westchester County home she shares with New York State governor Andrew Cuomo and his three daughters takes special priority. "To me, it's all about creating new memories and remembering lovely past ones," says Sandra. When company's coming, she sets up an easy, elegant DIY bar. Here's to stealing her idea.

Sandra Lee's Sparkling Spritzers

Makes 12 servings

Ingredients
1 orange (zested in strips, then sliced)
8 sprigs fresh mint
1 lime (zested in strips, then sliced)
1 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and sliced
1 cup frozen raspberries, divided
3 cups sugar
4 bottles chilled sparkling water
2 bottles prosecco
1 bottle flavored vodka
Extra slices of orange and lime, for garnish

Directions

1. Place orange zest and 4 sprigs of the mint in a bowl. Place lime zest and ginger in a second bowl. Place 3/4 cup of the raspberries in a third bowl.

2. In a saucepan, mix sugar and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then evenly divide liquid among the 3 bowls. Stir each gently to mix. Let cool to room temperature. Pour each into a jar or syrup pitcher and refrigerate until ready to use. (Will keep for up to 2 weeks.)

Sandra says...
Just Before Guests Arrive: Set out champagne flutes or wineglasses. Attractively arrange sparkling water, prosecco, vodka and all three syrups nearby. Add reserved mint sprigs, raspberries and orange and lime slices for garnish. Encourage each person to create a spritzer by mixing about 3 tablespoons of fruity syrup with sparkling water and, if desired, a shot of prosecco or vodka. Cheers!

Did you Know?
Sandra Lee has received both the president's Volunteer Service award and the Ellis Island Medal of honor for her commitment to giving back.