The Last Thing to Do with an Empty Jam Jar Before You Recycle It (It’s So Smart!)

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and that’s true for everything from fashion to home decor to art and even trash. Yes, you read that right. In this case, I’m talking about an item that, once empty, is usually destined for your recycling bin. While it’s perfectly acceptable to recycle your empty (and clean!) jars, you may be missing out on a great opportunity to not only reuse them, but to have a totally Insta-worthy cocktail moment.

The next time you’ve just polished off the last of your jelly or jam, don’t rinse it. Break out our tequila! Here’s how to make our idea of the perfect jam jar cocktail.

The first step is the most important: Leave whatever jam is clinging to the sides and bottom of the jar alone — it’s an essential part of the recipe. Then add a shot of tequila, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and some ice. Screw on the lid, then shake the jar for a few seconds to blend everything together, leftover jam and all. Take off the lid, add some seltzer, a sprig of mint, and you’ve got a gorgeous — and tasty! — cocktail on your hands!

Jam jar drinks have been trending on social media for a while now. TikTok creator Lara Buchar (@larabuchar) posted another take that’s equally enticing. She starts off by adding a shot of vodka to the jar with the jam still left on the sides, and then adds a squeeze of lime and ice before shaking. Once the jam is loosened, she finishes it the same way, with sparkling water and mint.

If you’re not a drinker, worry not! You can try the same recipe using a splash of lemonade, unsweetened iced tea, or more seltzer instead of tequila or vodka. It will still be fun, taste delicious, and give your jam jar one last purpose before being turned into something else at the recycling facility.

This post originally appeared on The Kitchn. See it there: The Last Thing to Do with an Empty Jam Jar Before You Recycle It (It’s So Smart!)