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For those of you who dare to visit your local produce section in the middle of winter, the sticker shock on some of your favorite fruits, vegetables, and herbs is enough to send you running for the frozen aisle. We don’t blame you! When food isn’t in season locally, it’s either grown in a hothouse or is shipped to the point of consumption from thousands of miles away. Not only does this affect the price of your favorite foods, it also impacts the taste and nutritional value in a pretty terrible way.
Fortunately, it looks like the warm weather is finally here to stay. With the change in seasons comes a bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs that lend themselves to making some pretty terrific cocktails. In fact, you might be surprised at the variety of goodies bursting with color and flavor in your local produce section or farmers’ market over the next few months. Here are a few of our favorite summer cocktails to make with fresh herbs. Best of all, these tasty concoctions align with your vegan meal plan.
Alcohol is optional, but highly recommended.
Watermelon Mojito
Super cool and refreshing, this summer mojito from NYC Indian restaurant Tabla features rum, mint, watermelon, lime juice, and simple syrup. This one is a crowd pleaser. Make a pitcher for your next backyard BBQ!
Get the recipe here.
Kachumber Cooler
Like your cocktail on the spicy side? The Kachumber Cooler is the perfect drink for you. Gin, lime juice, and simple syrup combine with cucumber puree, hot chilies, and cilantro for a fiery twist on a summer favorite.
Get the recipe here.
Strawberry Basil Lemonade
Any drink that combines strawberry and basil is pretty much a guaranteed win in my book. This cocktail uses strawberry vodka, sliced and pureed strawberries, fresh basil, and lemonade to create a refreshing treat.
Get the recipe here.
Peach Whiskey Smash
Nothing screams “summer” like a juicy peach. The Peach Whiskey Smash totally nails the warm weather vibe by combining everyone’s favorite fruit with bourbon and fresh mint leaves.
Get the recipe here.
Blackberry Herb Cocktail
Buy a bottle of Prosecco (or another sparkling white wine) and combine it with a homemade simple syrup made from rosemary, blackberries, sugar, and water. The flavor combination is out of this world.
Get the recipe here.
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