No, this isn't an Appletini, and it doesn't contain any artificial coloring. In fact, this is the Jolly Green Machine, a new cocktail from Napa Valley Grille that contains sparkling lemonade, gin... and kale?

Yup. For those brave enough to try it, this cocktail offers a distinct reward. Delicately balanced, with a sweet hint of elderflower and the grassy aroma of fresh kale, this greentini is surprisingly delicious and mild. The added kale juice — made by blending fresh baby kale with a little water — looks as potent as wheatgrass juice but has a fraction of the flavor, instead adding color and that grassy scent to the drink. It's a beverage that literally embodies spring's fresh grass and new flowers, and it will make an excellent addition to your Earth Month cocktail repertoire.

For the kale juice:

Add a handful of fresh baby kale leaves to a blender with a tablespoon or two of water. Blend them together until the mixture is very smooth. If it isn't blending well, add more water.

For the cocktail:

• 2 parts kale juice
• 3 parts fresh lemonade
• 1 part Farmer's Organic Gin
• 1/2 part St. Germain elderflower liqueur
• 2 parts club soda
• 1/2 part agave syrup (optional)

Add all the above ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice, and shake well. Strain the mixture into a martini glass and garnish with a cucumber or lemon slice.

Don't stop here! Try these 5 vegetable cocktails in a rainbow of colors. Or get even more daring with the G-Sprout cocktail.

image: Jessica Reeder

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