What’s a summer party without summer cocktails? From a classic margarita to trendy exotic concoctions, we all enjoy sipping our favorite icy mixed drinks at summer soirees. Whether swirling your signature drink or sampling from a full bar of spirits, your guests will appreciate one of these top 5 summer cocktails:
1. Classic Margarita
You can’t go wrong by serving a classic, fresh margarita. The sweet and sour taste of this south of the border favorite is always light and refreshing. Coat the rim with Kosher salt (optional). Then mix aged tequila, triple sec, fresh lime juice, superfine sugar, and a tiny dash of salt.
2. Cuban Mojito
This crisp South Beach favorite is a popular summer cocktail for the party crowd. A combination of rum, mint, lime, sugar, and club soda, it is sure to create a cool, refreshing buzz. Add crushed fresh mint and top with sprigs of mint for an authentically delicious delight.
3. Pimm’s Cup
A traditional cocktail in England, Pimm’s Cup has recently become more popular in North America. A favorite among Wimbledon-goers, Pimm’s cup is a mixture of Pimm’s No. 1 (a gin-based, spicy, slightly fruity spirit) and 7-up or Sprite, or lemonade and ginger ale. Add a slice of lemon and a cucumber.
4. Traditional Daiquiri
Said to be Hemingway’s favorite drink, a traditional rum daiquiri is nothing like the strawberry slushies the word daiquiri often calls to mind. Simply shake white rum, freshly squeezed lime juice, and simple syrup. Pour over ice, add a lime wheel garnish, and enjoy.
5. Tropical Pina Colada
A really good pina colada will transport you to the tropics in one sip. Skip the pre-made mix to blend it fresh from scratch – pineapple juice, cream of coconut, light rum – and pour it over crushed ice with a pineapple spear for garnish.
The great thing about cocktails is there are so many of them, to suit so many tastes. So get creative and get mixing! Cheers!
Here’s another, lighter summer favorite of mine: sangria! So much fun to make and really refreshing for a sizzling summer night.