You've been on the mountain all day, skiing. You come back down to the lodge, tired and cold. Someone hands you a hot Tomato Toddy to sip on and you nearly swoon it's so delicious. After an exhilerating, but exhausting day on the slopes, you want a little something to warm the innards.

This satisfying appetizer drink does the job and does it well. (And you don't have to be a skier to enjoy it!) In fact, this delicious apertif is good for any kind of holiday gathering. Try it out as a starter for the arrival of your guests for a Thanksgiving or Christmas gathering. Or just make it for the heck of it!

What you'll need:

- 1 can tomato soup

- 1 can beef consomme

- 1 can water

- 1/4 tsp thyme

- 1/4 tsp marjoram

- 1 Tbsp butter (optional)

All you do is combine all the ingredients, heat it all up in a saucepan. Add the butter for a rich and creamy flavor and especially if you aren't counting calories.

Leaving the butter out makes it a low calorie drink and is still delicious - either way you serve it. What makes it work so well is serving it up nice and hot in your prettiest cups. Your guests will love it and love you!

To spice it up, you can always add a dash or two of your favorite hot sauce. And of course, add a splash of vodka or your alcohol of choice to make it a mixed drink.

This appetizer drink recipe makes 4 - 6 servings.