National Absinthe Day

March 5 is also National Absinthe Day.

Absinthe is a green beverage with a unique taste comprised of anise, sugar and herbs - and a wee bit of thujone. Legend has it this mysterious drink with a colorful past was "invented" in 1792 by a French doctor named Pierre Ordinaire and first used as a medical elixir.

The highly alcoholic drink became quite popular in Europe during the 1800s and found its way to America during Prohibition and was particularly embraced by famous writers and artists. Eventually, absinthe was considered quite addictive and blamed for being a "psychoactive drug with harmful effects!" And in 1915, the "Green Fairy," was banned in America as well as some countries in Europe. Decades later, the ban was eventually lifted in some areas.

Today, Absinthe can be enjoyed in a variety of ways before, during and after dinner:

• Poured over a cube of white sugar

• Some light the absinthe-soaked cube (NOT recommended)

• In a cocktail

• Straight up

• In chocolates or ice cream sundaes.
  

Who knows - perhaps a little "absinthe" will make the heart grow fonder? And with the big St. Patrick's Day holiday right around the corner, this delicious green concoction, is sure to get you in the St. Paddy's Day "spirit."