What better way to relax at the end of the day than to make a refreshing cocktail and take a few moments to yourself? We all know summertime can be busy. We may not be able to do this every day, but at least once a week I try to. It helps me clear my mind and lets me enjoy an assortment of refreshing cocktails.
Pina colada’s take me to the tropics and I love Family Favorites’ take on one.
“If you’re having a cookout or a party this summer, greet your guests with a tall, cool drink,” she says. “Having a bucket of Pina Colada Slush prepared is a very easy (and economical!) way to serve cocktails.”
The recipe has the perfect balance of pineapple and coconutty pina colada flavor. It’s creamy with a hint of tartness. Topping with cream soda makes it similar to a float. Yum!
“My favorite summer breeze refreshment drink,” reveals Theodora Stamelakos about her Rose Sangria.
Turning Rosé wine into a sangria is genius. The citrus flavors give this sangria a pop of flavor. Fresh berries soak up the alcohol and are tasty to snack on. It’s light and perfect for a summer evening.
For her Hibiscus Sparkler, Jennifer H. (Portland, OR) makes a hibiscus simple syrup. That gets combined with Prosecco and orange juice to create a fantastic mimosa twist.
Hibiscus tea is delicious. If you’ve never had it before, it’s fruity and a little tart with a very distinct taste. Not exactly like cranberry but that’s the best flavor comparison I can think of. It’s quite tasty.
Lemonade your summertime go-to? Here are two unique recipes.
Robin Poindexter’s (Okmulgee, OK) Picnic Lemonade is the perfect way to cool down and relax.
“Hot, humid summers in the heartland call for a refreshing beverage,” thinks Robin.
To sweeten the lemonade, Robin suggests using sugar, honey, or honeysuckle syrup. I opted for wildflower honey and loved the aromatic, flowery scent it gives the lemonade. It gives the lemonade a fresh flavor that’s not overly sweet.
Debbie W.’s Watermelon Mint Lemonade was brought to my attention after it won another contest. And after one sip, I saw why it was a winner.
The sweet watermelon and lemon pair perfectly in this summertime lemonade. Add fresh mint and it becomes even more refreshing.
“If you want an extra kick you can add a shot of vodka per glass,” says Debbie. “The perfect summer drink!”
Whether you add a little vodka or serve it as is, this will become your go-to summertime cocktail.
Want more refreshing drinks? Then check out our Summer Sippers recipe collection. It’s filled with cocktails to suit everyone (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic). Happy Pinching!