Knock, Knock. It’s cocktail o’clock!
There’s no doubt that you’ve enjoyed your favorite summer cocktails while also taking part in fun summer activities. There is something for every taste!
As summer comes to a close, we’d like to share some of our favorites. Some need no prep at all! For those preferring the subtle flavor of seltzer with the perfect mixer we have several choices prefect to quench your thirst.
Kick back, relax, and enjoy!
Baby You’re So Classic
Margaritas are a popular favorite and for good reason.
If you’re a fan of tequila and want something fast and easy? Try this recipe:
– 2 oz of Blanco tequila
– ¾ oz lime juice
– ¾ oz of simple syrup or 1 teaspoon of agave nectar
– Shake and serve on the rocks
– Garnish: kosher salt or sugar the rim, and of course, add a thick lime wheel
Hakuna Ma Vodka’ what a wonderful phrase! Moscow Mules are enjoyed by people around the world all year long. Known for its beautiful presentation in a signature copper mug, this refreshing cocktail is guaranteed to help you beat the heat!
Recipe:
– 2 oz your choice of vodka
– 4 oz of traditional Ginger Beer
– 3/4 oz lime juice
– Serve on crushed ice
– Garnish: optional, lime wheel or mint leaves or cucumber
Frozen Delights
There is nothing better than a frozen fruit margarita or daiquiri by the pool or with your toes in the sand!
Often a frozen drink will help replace your desire for an ice cream treat.
Here is my personal favorite refreshing mango margarita recipe that serves two:
– 2 cups of frozen mango chunks
– 3 oz of Blanco tequila
– 1 oz of triple sec
– 1.5 oz of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of agave syrup (sweeten to taste)
– 1 to 2 cups of ice and blend
– Garnish: optional, a slice of mango dipped in tajin
Prefer The Bar Scene?
Try something new to add to your repertoire. A mojito with the fresh scent of mint is certain to tingle your taste buds.
Mojito recipe:
– 2 oz your choice of rum, white is preferred
– 1oz fresh lime juice
– ½ oz of simple syrup
– add a splash of club soda
– shake and serve with ice
– Garnish: mint spring (looks fancy)
And you simplest can’t go wrong with a splash of coconut rum in a favorite soft drink like Coke, Pepsi or Sprite. The smell alone brings images of swinging in a hammock on a quiet island. I think I’ll have two!!
Let’s Get Fruity
Just as summer fruits are part of our summer diets, they can play a part in our summer cocktails.
And for the mixologist in the crowd. We have the perfect blend to use your skills while also incorporating a summer fruit.
There are lots of different martinis for every season and every taste. A sweet pomegranate and cherry martini hits just the spot!
Recipe:
– 1 ½ oz of vodka
– 1 oz of pomegranate, cherry, or cranberry juice
– 1 juiced lime or ½ oz of lemon juice
– ½ oz simple syrup or splash of sprite to taste
– Shake and serve on ice
– Garnish: cherries or any desired fruit
For some more inspiration, check out 11 Fruity Martini Recipes to Add Some Color to Your Next Party
And for the Gin lovers try:
– 1 ½ oz of Sevilla Orange Tanqueray
– 4 oz Fever Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit
– Add Ice and enjoy
– Garnish: with a thick orange wheel
Don’t Think We Forgot About You!
Mocktails have come a long way and are the perfect summer quencher for everyone! Did you know many companies now offer mocktails? So, it can be as easy as a stroll in the grocery store to find a favorite.
Don’t miss out on the fun! People of all ages can try. Here’s a list of mocktails you can enjoy with the whole family, These 5 Store-Bought Non-Alcoholic Cocktails Are Actually Worth the Money.
Giving alcoholic beverages a rest but still want to enjoy a flavorful drink?
Head over to Kwench Juice Cafe. Their juices will do just the trick!
Made from freshly squeezed fruits, they offer various juice blends perfect to add in any mocktail. They even have juice shots, let the party begin!
Healthy never looked so good. Now that’s what I’m talking about!
You know what pairs perfectly with wine?
Charcuterie! More specifically, Amazing Grazing’s Charcuterie Boards! Their delicious boards are limitless. They can be themed and customized for any occasion. Grab a board for date nights, girls’ nights, happy hour, anniversaries, home parties & more! You name it and you will be the hit of the event. This is a great addition to any gathering. But who’s kidding? No special occasion is needed. All the work is done for you, no need to fret over buying all the ingredients and the preparation… you know what they say, “Sweet dreams are made of cheese, who am I to dis a brie?”
Drink Local:
Catalan Tapas Bar has craft cocktails and mocktails, and to top it off, on Thirsty Thursdays they offer live jazz music & half-off all bottles of wine! Count me in!
In addition, they have must-try summer Red or White Sangrias.
For those who want to make it from home:
– 6 oz red wine
– ½ oz brandy
– ½ oz triple sec
– Splash orange juice
– Squeeze of lemon juice
– Add ice
– Top with ginger ale
Recipe provided by Catalan.
All in all, don’t let the final hot days of summer get you down. Enjoy the perfect mocktail or cocktail to mix things up (pun intended). Try something new to wet your whistle! You may find the sun is a little cooler than you expected after a soothing drink that excites your senses too.
Friendly reminder to never drink and drive, help protect your own safety and the safety of others!
**This blog was written by Positively Apex Intern, Hailey Hawkins**
**Photos by Hailey Hawkins**