Table for two in the back(yard)!
Although patio season is officially a go, many of us are still adapting to the new norm and waiting a hot minute to hit a public patio. Trading public for personal, this patio season is all about soaking up the sun and catching up with friends and family in the backyard or by the pool. Whether spiking the punch or sipping on sangria, take this opportunity to experiment with your lineup of go-to cocktails. Here’s some of our favorite sippable adult beverages for a backyard get together.
Easy Peasy, Lemon Squeezy
For those who’d rather spend their time floating around the pool than prepping in the kitchen, choose an oh-so-easy raspberry lemonade recipe to grab and go. One regular-sized lemon contains up to three tablespoons of juice, so you’ll need a round dozen for a pitcher-sized batch.
- Using a blender, purée half of the freshly squeezed lemon juice with a large bowl of raspberries.
- Strain the pulp, (and save it for pie!), measure 5 ounces of vodka, add a dash of sugar (and the remaining lemon juice) and stir.
- To water down this boozy mix, include ice or cold water to the shared pitcher or individual mason jars.
Let’s keep it Insta-worthy.
This rough recipe is easy to adapt in regards to taste and appearance, so use your best judgement when it comes to quality and quantity. Dress her up with lemon slices, fresh raspberries, and mint springs or feel free to save time by using a frozen can of Minute Maid Pink Lemonade. No judgement here.
Keeping It Classic
Although there are a variety of takes on traditional red sangria, it’s all about personal appeal. From the fruit to the mix, the cocktail is open to interpretation and experimentation. Throughout the season, play with the kinds, sizes, and quantities of ingredients until you find the perfect combination for your private soiree. The following is a list of sangria’s basic components (options included):
- Fruit (apples, oranges, pears and/or berries)
- Sweetener (brown sugar or cane sugar)
- Mix (orange juice or ginger ale)
- Liquor (rum or brandy)
- And of course, the wine. Opt for a bold, fruity, and full-bodied Spanish red wine.
Quick tip: In terms of instruments, all you need is a pitcher and a wooden spoon to fill and stir, respectively. Before serving, whatever the case or combo, pop the pitcher in the fridge for 30 minutes to chill for maximum satisfaction.
Make It a Margarita on the House
One of the most popular cocktails in North America, the margarita offers a perfect blend of sweet and tang. Like sangria, the varieties are endless. The best margaritas are made with freshly-squeezed lime juice, but if you don’t have the time or energy, a pre-made sour mix will do. Just know the first option is well worth the effort.
Although the dilemma of salt versus no salt is still up for debate, “shaken, not stirred” is the only need-to-know.
- To start, chill a cocktail glass, rub the rim with lime juice and dip it in coarse salt.
- Add 2-oz of tequila, 1-oz of triple sec (or any orange-flavored liqueur such as Cointreau or Grand Marnier), 1-oz of lime juice, and a handful of ice into a cocktail shaker.
- Now, get your shake on. Shake, strain and serve (over ice).