Entertaining at Home: Go-To Summer Cocktails
Sinkology is proud to present Kristan Allen, our design expert and guest blogger who runs the @FarmhouseRedefined Instagram. Kristan is here to share some design ideas and inspiration around designing your home around your copper sink.
Entertaining at Home: Go-To Summer Cocktails
Summer is finally here and after what seemed like a never-ending winter, we’re finally getting back into the warm-weather swing of things. For us, this typically means more outdoor dining with friends or family in attendance! Outdoor entertaining is one of my favorite things – it’s casual, less fussy and just easier to relax and enjoy the sunshine and fun times.
Our outdoor gatherings are usually pretty streamlined when it comes to the menu – chips and one or two fun dips, something for the grill and a refreshing cocktail are all we need to please a crowd! Beer is always on the bar list and I sometimes pick up canned wine. Yes, you heard that right…canned wine. It’s relatively new on the beverage scene, but it’s delicious and the packaging makes it great for tailgating or enjoying al fresco.
But sometimes you need something a little more festive than beer and wine, so I thought I’d share a few of my go-to cocktails that are easy and delicious. I’ve already made each of these at least once this season…and I served them in my Sinkology copper barware for an extra special touch.
Mojitos
I’m a huge (HUGE) fan of mojitos…the mint and lime combo is so refreshing and they’re easy to make! You can find a ton of recipes online – for single servings or pitchers. Some use granulated sugar and others use simple syrup (equal parts of sugar and water brought to a boil and cooled). I usually make them by the glass and one of my favorite quick recipe versions is this one from All Recipes.
Mini Ice Cream Cups
This might not qualify as a cocktail, but it definitely qualifies as fun! I love to whip up little mini milkshakes to serve as an after-dinner dessert or treat. These are great because they can be made for guests of all ages! Whip up plain ice cream versions for younger guests and then add something like Bailey’s or another type of liqueur for adults. The last time I made these, I served them in Sinkology’s copper shot glasses, topped with a spritz of whipped cream. They were just the right size and looked too cute lined up on a serving tray.
Summer Sangria
One of the things I like best about sangria (aside from the taste!) is that it is so easy to make in giant batches. In most cases, you’re literally just letting wine, fruit and a few other ingredients marinate for an extended period of time. Perfect for large BBQs or picnics because you can make a large quantity in advance. Someone shared this recipe for Berry Sangria with me a long time ago and it’s become a summer entertaining staple in my house. I included the recipe below in case you want to whip it up for your next gathering. Enjoy and cheers to summer!
Berry Sangria
Ingredients
- 1 orange, sliced
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 lime, sliced
- 1 bag frozen mixed berries
- 1 1.5-liter bottle of Arbor Mist Blackberry Merlot
- 1 cup orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Triple Sec)
- Carbonated soda of your choice (Fresca, Sprite, Club Soda, etc)
Directions
Add orange liqueur to a large pitcher or container. Add the orange, lemon and lime slices. Add the frozen mixed berries. Pour in the Arbor Mist, cover and place in refrigerator several hours or overnight.
To serve: pour chilled sangria into ice-filled glasses, leaving about an inch to top off with soda.
If you have any additional questions during your quest for farmhouse fireclay kitchen sinks or decor, our Sinkologists are here to help. Contact us or follow us on Facebook, Houzz, Pinterest, or Instagram for more helpful tips and design ideas.