Grapefruit Thyme Surprise Recipes

Steps:

• For the simple syrup: In a small saucepan, combine the thyme sprigs, sugar and 1/2 cup water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the syrup to cool for at least 20 minutes.
• Cut the ends off one of the grapefruits and place cut-side down on the counter. Using a paring knife, cut away the peel. Working over a small bowl or a large glass measuring cup to catch any juices, cut along the membrane on both sides of each segment and remove the segments. Place the grapefruit segments in 4 chilled champagne flutes. Squeeze the juice from the membranes into the bowl. Discard the membranes. Halve the remaining grapefruit and squeeze the juice into the bowl.
• Strain the simple syrup and grapefruit juice into a small pitcher, pressing on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Add the prosecco.
• Pour into the prepared glasses and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs if using.

Steps:

• Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan and heat to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat. Add the thyme and peppercorns. Let steep for one hour. Strain and chill, reserving a few thyme sprigs for garnish.
• Mix grapefruit juice and vodka in a pitcher. (Chill if making ahead.) To serve, fill each 8-ounce glass with 1 tablespoon thyme syrup, add ice to fill the glass, and fill 3/4 of the way full with the grapefruit mixture. Top with club soda. Garnish with 1 sprig of fresh thyme and some cracked black pepper if desired.