Summer is finally here in Nashville, and with all the kids out of school, it’s the perfect time for having friends over for lite bites and catching up over cocktails. Whether or not you’re poolside sipping or lounging inside with the A/C (we can’t blame you there), having a well-made drink is one of our favorite afternoon necessities. We’ve rounded up a list of some deliciously bright, warm weather cocktails you’re going to want to make at home!
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Herradura Sandia Fresca
Herradura’s Sandia Fresca cocktail is a quick way to really embrace the season. It’s a simple and refreshing drink that just happens to be a TNE Favorite, so you’re going to want to try it for yourself.
Ingredients:
- 2 parts Tequila Herradura
- 1 part fresh watermelon juice
- ½ mezcal joven
- ½ fresh lime juice
- ¼ part agave nectar
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients and shake with ice to chill.
- Pour into a rock or martini glass and garnish with a peel of watermelon.
Grapefruit and Sage Champagne Cocktails
The answer is always “yes” when champagne is the question. This yummy combination of bubbles, grapefruit, and sage screams spring with both the color and the taste. Floating Kitchen posted a great recipe, and we’ve rounded up the simple ingredients and directions below:
Ingredients:
For the Simple Syrup
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 bunches of fresh sage leaves
For the Cocktails
- Pink grapefruit juice
- Sage simple syrup
- Angostura bitters
- Ice cubes
- Champagne or other sparkling white wine
- Fresh sage leaves
Instructions:
- To make the simple syrup, combine the sugar and water over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to simmer and the sugar is completely dissolved. Stir in the sage and cook for 30 more seconds. Then, remove the saucepan from the heat and set it aside to cool. Once the simple syrup has cooled to room temperature, remove and discard the sage. Transfer the simple syrup to a clean re-sealable container and store it in your refrigerator until you are ready to use it.
- Now, let’s make the cocktails. For a single cocktail, vigorously shake 3 ounces (6 tablespoons) grapefruit juice, 1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) of the sage simple syrup and 2-3 dashes of bitters in a shaker with ice. Strain into a glass with fresh ice. Top with about 1/2 cup of champagne. Garnish with fresh sage leaves, if desired. Serve immediately.
Lemon and Rosemary Gin & Tonic
If you’re like me, your favorite cocktail involves Hendricks Gin and tonic water. The best part? This recipe is ultra simple. Just add a shot (or two) of gin to your shaker, add your preferred amount of tonic water with some ice and a lemon slice and shake, shake, shake. Pour the concoction into a glass, add the sprig of rosemary, and voilà.
Want something with a little less of those pesky calories? Substitute tonic water for soda water!
Coconut Lemon Sour Pitcher
Having the girls over Saturday afternoon? This pitcher is a favorite for those who love lemonade. The little hint of coconut makes it just the right amount of exotic.
Ingredients:
For the Pitcher:
- 4 cups coconut water, unsweetened
- 2 1/2 cups vodka
- 1 cup lemon juice fresh squeezed
- 3/4 cup simple syrup
For the Simple Syrup:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup sugar granulated or raw sugar or even stevia
Instructions:
- For the simple syrup, place sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir until sugar is completely dissolved and liquid is clear. Cool and bottle. Refrigerate for up to 6 weeks.
- For the pitcher, combine lemon juice and simple syrup in a large pitcher. Add vodka and coconut water. Top with ice before serving. Garnish with a lemon slice or citrus peel.
