Photo credit: Rachael Ray Show
Aired June 19, 2015
by Lisa Lozano
Fall may be just around the corner, but that hasn't stopped summer from dumping hotter-than-ever temperatures on us. Need a quick way to cool off? If you're 21 and older, check out 11 delicious and refreshing cocktails perfect for any summer occasion.
Rachael Ray Show
If you’re craving a high-end but simple marg, Josh Capon’s classic recipe will hit the spot.
Tip: In any cocktail that features liquor, quality matters. You don’t want to have to keep adding ingredients to mask the taste of the liquor; instead you want a mellow flavor that will complement the other ingredients.
No. 2: John Cusimano's Texas 40 Cocktail
Rachael Ray Show
Rach’s hubby (and house cocktail master) John whipped up this refreshing gin cocktail for Sunny Anderson’s 40th birthday. The gin is paired with refreshing lemon juice, St. Germaine liqueur (made from elderflowers), and a splash of bitters. The drink is shaken, poured over ice, and then topped with pink champagne.
Rachael Ray Show
This lemon-lime gin cocktail is a perfect antidote to a steamy summer day.
No. 4: John Cusimano's Salty Dog Fizz
Rachael Ray Show
This salty gin cocktail combines salt and the tang of grapefruit to create a perfect adult beverage to sip on the porch.
No. 5: Josh Capon's Chile-Rubbed Mango Margarita
Rachael Ray Show
Josh Capon’s second margarita to make our list takes it up a notch. This chili-rubbed mango margarita is both sweet and spicy, and would pair perfectly with some grilled carne asada or fajitas.
No. 6: Prosecco Cocktail with Berries
Rachael Ray Show
This simple but elegant cocktail starts with St. Germaine, which is then topped with Prosecco. Add a few berries, and you’re done!
No. 7: Christina Hendricks' Gold and Soda Cocktail
Rachael Ray Show
If you like your cocktails with a bite, try this twist on a scotch and soda. Mad Men darling Christina Hendricks uses a grapefruit-infused soda mixed with Johnny Walker Gold (but you could use any Scotch you like) and garnishes the beverage with a Grapefruit wedge.
No. 8: John’s 'Heart-Shaped Box' Cocktail
Rachael Ray Show
This delicious blended drink features all the beautiful berry flavors of summer. First, blend up your favorite berries and strain. Then pour Crème de Cassis (black currant) liqueur into a glass, add your blended berries, then top with Prosecco. Garnish with a slice of strawberry floating on top.
No. 9: Sunny Anderson's Grilled Green Tomato Bloody Mary
Rachael Ray Show
Bloody Marys are a classic brunch staple, and Sunny's grilled green tomato twist offers the perfect opportunity to truly spice up your meal. This is a drink you'll want to make time and time again.
No. 10: Andrew Zimmern’s Cucumber-Mint Lemonade
Rachael Ray Show
This delicious lemonade combines the tartness of lemon, the brightness of mint and the mellow taste of cucumber for a virgin beverage the whole family can enjoy. Add your favorite liquor if you want to make it adult-only!
Rachael Ray Show
This classic mimosa is kicked up a notch by using fresh-squeezed orange juice, which is then topped with Champagne.
So now go kick back and enjoy your summer! Cheers!