Summer hasn’t even officially kicked off yet, and I am over here like, “Bring on the cocktails P-L-E-A-S-E!”
In this episode of my Summer Cocktail Series: Refreshing Vodka Drinks, I will be showcasing five cocktails made with vodka.
When I think of summer, the word fresh comes to mind. In these cocktails, you can find local and seasonal fruits and herbs which makes them extra special. So sit back, relax, and cheers to summer!
According to the website, www.ginvodka.org, vodka can be traced back as early as the 9th century. Originally used as medicine and as an ingredient in gunpowder, it wasn’t until the mid-1500s, that vodka began to be mass-produced and distributed. Similar to gin, vodka is being produced in Vermont by many small producers who are focused on delivering delicious and unique local spirits. Check out a local retailer to see what Vermont vodkas you can find.
Vodka Tonic:
Fill a pint size mason jar with ice, then add:
2 oz. Vodka
Fill with Tonic
Squeeze of lemon or lime
This thirst-quenching cocktail pairs nicely with grilled fish and vegetable kabobs or a shrimp ceviche.
Vodka Lemonade (or Vodka Strawberry Lemonade):
Fill a pint size mason jar with ice, then add:
2 oz. Vodka
Fill with Lemonade
Add a tablespoon of homemade strawberry simple syrup (if you have it!)
Garnish with a lemon slice
This pairs nicely with barbecued chicken and grilled corn.
Basil-Blueberry Gimlet
Fill a shaker with ice and add:
2 oz. Vodka
1 oz. Blueberry Simple Syrup
2 T. finely chopped basil leaves and the juice of half a lime muddled together
Shake and strain into a glass
Garnish with frozen blueberries and a lime wedge
This cocktail goes well with a cheese board and salty nuts.
Rhubarb Collins
Fill a pint size mason jar with ice, then add:
2 oz. Vodka
1 oz. Rhubarb Simple Syrup
½ oz. Fresh-squeezed lemon juice
Fill with soda water
Garnish with a lemon wedge
This cocktail pairs nicely with shrimp and orzo salad.
Fourth of July Cocktail
Fill a pint size mason jar with ice and frozen blueberries, then add:
2 oz. Vodka
2 oz. Pineapple Juice
2 oz. Fruit punch
Fill with ginger ale, or lemon-lime soda
Garnish with a pineapple wedge
This cocktail pairs nicely with grilled steak and potatoes.
I love having a jar of simple syrup in the refrigerator to add sweetness to an afternoon iced coffee, and delicious flavor to sun tea, seltzer, or one of these cocktails. Adding in fresh fruits or herbs kicks the syrup up a notch.
Basic Simple Syrup:
Bring 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar to a slow boil. Stirring frequently, allow the sugar to melt. Slowly simmer for 5 minutes, remove from heat and let cool. Pour into a jar and refrigerate.
To make flavored simple syrup, add approximately ½ a cup of chopped fruit such as: strawberries, rhubarb, raspberries, blueberries or plums to the water and sugar mixture. Allow sugar to melt and simmer for 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and cool. Strain into a jar. Cool and refrigerate.
You can also try making these cocktails alcohol-free. They are delicious with or without the vodka, and make a wonderful drink for friends or the kids!
Have you tried a local vodka that you love? I’d love to know your recommendations… What summer cocktail is your favorite?
