TC Guide to Summer Cocktails
By Ashley Sugar
The summer heat is coming, so why not cool down with a fabulous craft cocktail? Whether you’re craving a tropical concoction by the pool or a potent ‘attitude adjustment’ to unwind after a long work week, TC has compiled some winning recipes. If you’re a beginner mixologist, you may need to pick up a few tools to get the bar cart in commission. No more spending $13 downtown for a lackluster margarita. With this guide, every hour can be happy hour.
If you’re spending this summer in a hot climate, we hope you’ll be lounging by the pool. The Strawberry Mojito is the perfect poolside drink to sip while tanning. It’s not too strong, just a tad sweet, and oh so refreshing. Don’t forget to muddle the mint with purpose and passion! The classic combination of the lime, mint, and rum flavors gets an upgrade with the added strawberry. I can’t promise you’ll have just one, but I can promise it will be delicious. You can thank TC later.
Getting together with the girls is the ideal occasion to experiment with innovative alcoholic beverages. The only thing better than Rose is frozen Rose. It’s like an adult slushy! If you haven’t heard about this new trend, you arrived just in time. For the boozy brunch or GNO, a frose is both fun and feminine. Try the White Peach Frose recipe below; it is sure to make a splash. If you haven’t had the chance to indulge in Frose, what are you waiting for?
We all need a night every once in a while to relax and decompress. Whether you prefer to take a bath or binge a new Netflix series, a cocktail can take your self-care night to the next level. Instead of worrying about making a complex creation with multiple steps, make a quick, easy Strawberry Champagne. This recipe takes the classic favorite and elevates it by bringing in sweet strawberries. For a classy, five-minute recipe, click above.
A summer picnic or a night at the beach makes for a perfect summer date night. Surprising your significant other with a handmade cocktail is sure to put a smile on their face. Guys may not be into the colorful, fruity drinks us girls love, so try a more moderate drink with a bit of punch. A Bubbly Blood Orange Bourbon Smash hits just the right note. This cocktail marries the feminine champagne and masculine bourbon into the perfect drink compromise.
A summer cocktail guide would not be complete without a margarita. Fruity margaritas can come off as overly sweet or “fake-tasting,” but not this recipe. This cocktail incorporates lime and cucumber, a surprisingly fantastic duo. This recipe is not only low calorie but sugar-free, making for a hangover-free morning (Hallelujah!). This summer, skip the cheap pre-made mix, and make a homemade Cucumber Lime Margarita. Warning: you may never go back.
Both a crowd favorite and a host’s dream, sangria is the best party cocktail. It is equally tasty and beautiful. It can be made in big batches with only a few minutes of preparation. Put a summer twist on this classic by mixing in summer fruits, like watermelon, and add a cute garnish. For the perfect Watermelon Peach White Wine, Summer Sangria recipe, scroll down. Did I mention this version has tequila in it? Say less. My personal favorite budget-friendly option is Espolon. If you want to dress up your sangria, throw it in a gorgeous pitcher.
Photo via Alexandra F “Summer Cocktails” on Pinterest
