The air is warm, the flowers are blooming, and if you’re anything like us you’re getting outside more than ever! Oh, how thankful we are to have our veranda and upstairs balconette to enjoy our evenings (and sometimes afternoons) outside!
And that got me thinking that it’s high time to give my Happy Hour essentials a little update. I am BIG on finding quality pieces at great prices that can be used multiple ways. And I think these picks will be just as amazing for an inside cocktail OR sweet tea on the veranda! Piqued your interest? Well, let me show ya what I’m working with…
You’ll notice that everything, including this stunning oval party tub, is super clean and simple – elegant yet down to earth enough to throw some sparkling waters and beers on ice to enjoy with friends. These old-fashioned glasses are perfect for a signature cocktail, and these coupes multitask for martinis AND champers…and you know I love a cold glass of bubbles! Cocktails not your thing? This highball is perfect for sipping sweet tea or cucumber infused water. And don’t forget your stainless steel straw…practical AND good for Mother Earth! Of course, you’ll need ice for all those drinks, and an ice bucket that will be your friend! This one is stunning! Now, it’s time to mix up a batch of your signature cocktail with the matching shaker and tools!
Now…I can’t share all these goodies without sharing a favorite warm weather drink recipe with you! This Spicy Grapefruit Margarita, from Garnish with Lemon is refreshingly light with just a bit of kick…AND it’s a favorite of my assistant Tabetha! You can thank her later;-) You’ll need:
- 10-12 fresh jalapeño slices
- 4 ounces agave nectar**
- 8 ounces freshly squeezed lime juice*
- 16 ounces freshly squeezed grapefruit juice*
- 16 ounces silver tequila
- lime wedges
For the rim or your glass:
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
Now for the fun part!
- Put jalapeño slices, agave nectar and lime juice in a large pitcher and muddle slightly. Next pour in the grapefruit juice and tequila and stir until combined.
- Next combine your salt rim ingredients in a shallow plate. Rim your glasses (this recipe makes enough for 8) with the lime wedges and dip the rims to coat.
- Fill your glasses with ice and serve away!
*For ease you might be tempted to use store bought lime and grapefruit juices. Don’t get me wrong, these will do just fine, but you WON’T be disappointed by making the effort to squeeze the fruit by hand (or juicer)!
**I sometimes use less agave as I don’t like my cocktails quite as sweet. Play around with it for your own tastebuds!
Enjoy, sweet friends!
