The Summer Solstice Cocktail

When I am trying to develop a new recipe, I happily take inspiration wherever I can find it.  In the case of this cocktail, I happened to find it in two places.  Lucky for you, I’ve combined them into one delicious, refreshing cocktail recipe just in time for your Fourth of July celebration.

The first inspiration was the arrival of summer last Friday.  Since then, we’ve seen temperatures well into the 90s with oppressive humidity.  Apparently, Mother Nature wants to drive the point home:  summer is here!

So, picture me at the end of a hot and humid day, exhausted from the farm’s daily chores.  I was craving a refreshing, cold drink and thought of the crisp ginger-lime simple syrup that I had chilling in the refrigerator.  The possibilities seemed refreshing and perfect for the first day of Summer.

I sometimes get wild ideas about combinations and concoctions and then have to invent a way to go about the creative business of transforming inspiration into reality.  Occasionally, it takes a second or third attempt to perfect the combination of flavors. This one came together on the first try.

One sip and I knew that this would be a summer drink of choice.  This recipe was perfect and ready to share with you.

I hope that you will enjoy this combination that we aptly named The Summer Solstice.  It’s perfect for those warm summer afternoons made as a cocktail, mocktail, or lemonade cooler.

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The Summer Solstice Cocktail

Jennifer from 1840 Farm

We have made a non-alcoholic version of this drink for the farm kids who both gave it a thumbs up. Simply substitute lemonade or carbonated water for the vodka depending on your preference.

Author: Jennifer from 1840 Farm

Ingredients

For the Fresh Ginger Lime Simple Syrup

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water
• 2 ounces ginger root peeled and sliced into coins
• zest from 1/2 a lime

For the Summer Solstice Cocktail

• 2 ounces vodka
• 1/2 ounce lime juice
• 1 1/2 ounce ginger-lime syrup
• 4 ounces lemonade

Instructions

For the Fresh Ginger Lime Simple Syrup

• Place all ingredients in a small pot and stir to combine. Place pot over low heat and bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Simmer over low heat until the sugar has completely dissolved.
• Remove the pot from the heat and allow the syrup to cool completely. Pour the syrup through a fine mesh strainer to remove any solids. The strained syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one month. I like to store mine in a clean, repurposed bottle with a pourer spout in the refrigerator.

For the Summer Solstice Cocktail

• Place all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with a handful of ice. Shake until well mixed. Strain into a glass with fresh ice and serve. At 1840 Farm, we like to serve the Summer Solstice in a wide mouth mason jar.

Tried this recipe?Mention @1840Farm or tag #1840FarmFood! We can't wait to see what you make!