The 6 Best Summertime Drinks
October 22, 2009
•Le Cordon Bleu
•Dallas
• 0 Comments
Slurp, swallow and relax. There's nothing like a chilled beverage to cool you down from the summer heat. Here's our list of the top 10 drinks that are sure to quench your thirst. We'll even offer you a few tips on how to prepare your own batch of summer cocktails (simply omit the liquor for a non-alcoholic treat).
1. Margarita
It's icy. It's sweet. It has a kick of tequila. What more can you ask for in a summer drink? We suggest that you skip the pre-made mixer and try a special version of the Mexican classic: Combine 1.5 oz. tequila (100 percent agave is best), .5 oz. triple sec, and 1 oz. fresh-squeezed lime juice. Pour in an ice-filled, salt-rimmed glass and enjoy!
2. Mojito
This minty beverage will leave your mouth tingling with satisfaction. Also made with pomegranate, blueberry and other sweet infusions, the Mojito's simple ingredients, fresh mint, sugar, lemon juice, club soda, and rum leave you without a sticky, syrupy taste on your tongue.
3. The Bichon Frise
Maybe I'm fond of this summer drink because my dog shares the same breed. In any case, this rebellious version of the Greyhound is pure delight. Still requiring vodka and grapefruit juice, the added twist comes from St. Germain elderflower liqueur -- a trendy new mixer loved by bartenders far and wide.
4. Horchata
It sounds like a fancy version of a burrito. It looks like chocolate milk. Well, Horchata novices, you're in for a treat: This summer drink is made with ground-up rice, toasted almonds, a touch of cinnamon, and lime zest. Since it's better to not mess with a good recipe, especially one that requires grinding and soaking overnight, your best bet is to visit an authentic taqueria that serves this traditional Mexican beverage.
5. Summer Beer
This recipe has been recreated by BBQ-loving families for centuries. No matter the outcome, Summer Beer must employ all the necessary ingredients: juice, vodka and beer. Feel free to revise later, but here's our favorite version of the summer party classic: Thaw 12 oz. of frozen pink lemonade concentrate and add the same quantity of water and vodka in a gallon-size pitcher. Pour in 12 oz. of beer (your choice). Mix well, serve over ice, and garnish with lemon wedges and mint sprigs. Your guests are in for a night of summer loving.
6. Sangria
Also a party favorite, Sangria is light, fruity, and easy to drink when the sun beats down. It's also easy and fun to prepare, and a great way to enjoy the fresh fruits of summer. In a large bowl, smash together 2.5 cups pineapple, 2 cups strawberries, and 1 cup maraschino cherries. Douse with 2 cups each of rum and orange juice. Refrigerate for 8 hours. At the same time, mix 2 bottles of red wine with 2 cups each of rum and orange juice and 1 cup sugar. Refrigerate this for 8 hours as well. Drain the fruit mixture and mix it in with the wine and you've got sangria, ready to serve 20!
Refreshing Fun
Keeping hydrated is important because it staves off exhaustion and upset stomach caused by elevated temperatures. As much as that juicy burger sounds inviting, a tall glass of icy refreshment is hard to beat. Slurp your way to relaxation with these summer treats.
This article is presented by Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts Dallas. Le Cordon Bleu Institute of Culinary Arts Dallas offers Le Cordon Bleu culinary education classes and culinary training programs in Dallas, Texas. To learn more about the class offerings, please visit Chefs.edu/Dallas for more information.
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