Building a summer cocktail isn’t rocket science. Ice in some form is a must. Citrus and tropical flavors are highly recommended, paired with a strong yet bright liquor.
Try these three classic recipes for a summer refresher that won’t let you down.
The Mojito
- 2.5 oz Rum (white)
- 1 oz Lime juice (fresh)
- 1 oz Simple syrup (see recipe below)
- 8 fresh Mint leaves
- Lime-flavored club soda or sparkling water, ice
In a cocktail shaker, add rum, lime juice, simple syrup and mint leaves. Muddle (smash) the mint leaves well.
Add ice and shake the cocktail, then strain into a tall glass such as a Collins or highball glass. Add ice and top off with the club soda. Garnish with a mint sprig.
You can buy simple syrup or make your own. The simplest way is to combine equal parts water and sugar in a small pot over medium heat. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. Do not allow the mixture to boil.
Cool and use as needed, or store in a container in the refrigerator and use for months as needed.
Serves 2
The Pina Colada
- 1 oz White rum
- 1 oz Dark rum
- 3 oz Pineapple juice
- 1.5 oz Coconut cream
- 1 oz Heavy cream
- Dash Angostura bitters, ice
Put everything in a blender with ice. Blend for about 15 seconds. Pour it into a hurricane glass. Garnish with a slice of pineapple and/or maraschino cherry.
The Margarita
- Sea salt, for the glass
- 1 oz Tequila
- 1 oz Orange liqueur (Cointreau or Grand Marnier)
- 1 oz fresh Lime juice, plus slices for garnish
- ½ oz Agave nectar or simple syrup, more to taste, ice
Salt the rim of a glass by rubbing a lime wedge around the edge and dipping it onto a small plate of salt. Fill the glass with ice.
Place the tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, and agave in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into the glass. Taste and stir in more agave nectar, if desired.
