As the owner of a brand new, teeny, tiny gas grill bought for holiday grillin’ and chillin’, I now know how expensive and ridiculous putting together a July 4th cookout can be. Just in the past day, I’ve shelled out for a propane tank, steaks, burgers, chicken kebabs, and buns. That’s not to mention the ice and mixers that also needed to be restocked. And I’m not even having any guests beyond my husband! So I sympathize with the party planners and would-be Martha Stewarts out there at this time of the year.
Here’s an idea to make things light on yourself: Rather than agonizing over your tablescape or backyard decor, mix up these LUSHious libations, serve them in mason jars—to show off the patriotic colors, declare your independence from party madness
Red
Juicy blackerries and fresh mint make this cocktail a standout.
Independence Spice
1 ½ parts Basil Hayden’s Bourbon
½ part Fresh Lemon Juice
¾ parts Simple Syrup
7 Blackberries
7 Mint Leaves
2-3 parts Sparkling Wine
Muddle 6 blackberries and 6 mint leaves in a Boston Shaker with ¼ part simple syrup. In the mixing glass, combine Basil Hayden’s Bourbon, lemon juice and remaining simple syrup and add to the muddled blackberries and mint leaves. Add ice and shake. Double strain into a glass with fresh crushed ice. Top with sparkling wine. Garnish with a skewered mint leaf and blackberry.
White
You could go with a G&T or a mojito…or step up your game with this flavorful drink
All Summer Long
1 ½ oz Ketel One Oranje Flavored Vodka
¼ oz Simple Syrup
Lemonade
Red sugar for garnish
Build in a glass rimmed with red sugar. Combine the Ketel One Oranje and simple syrup. Top with Lemonade
Blue
If you’ve been wondering what to do with that bottle of Blue Curaçao that’s been lolling in the back of your drinks cabinet for ages, now’s the time to break it out. This cocktail is available at NYY Steak.
Yankeetini
2 oz. Absolut Vodka
1 oz. Blue Curaçao
1 oz. White Cranberry Juice
Served in Martini glass with blue sugar rim.
