6 Easy Summer Cocktail Recipes with Herbs

The Magic of Herbs in Cocktails

Summer is the perfect time to indulge in refreshing cocktails, especially those infused with the vibrant flavours of fresh herbs. From the refreshing touch of mint to the heady scent of lavender, each herb offers a unique aromatic profile that can transform a simple drink into a delightful symphony of taste.

Whether you're hosting a garden party or simply relaxing on a sunny afternoon, these herb-inspired drinks will elevate your cocktail game. Let's dive into some creative recipes that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Why Use Fresh Herbs for Summer Cocktails?

Fresh herbs add a unique depth of flavour and aroma to cocktails, transforming ordinary drinks into extraordinary experiences. They not only enhance the taste but also provide a touch of elegance and a burst of freshness that’s perfect for summer, which screams for refreshing drinks.

Below are the main reasons why fresh herbs should be your go-to ingredient for summer cocktail magic:

Peak Flavour Fresh herbs haven't travelled long distances or sat on store shelves. They're bursting with essential oils, the compounds that give them their intense aroma and flavour. Compared to dried herbs, fresh herbs have a more lively and nuanced taste in your drink.

Endless Variety From mint's classic coolness to rosemary's surprising smokiness, the world of herbs offers a vast flavour playground. Experiment with different combinations to create unique, personalised cocktails that reflect your taste.

Simple Yet Sophisticated Fresh herbs are incredibly versatile. A simple muddle can infuse your drink with a delightful essence, while a thoughtfully chosen garnish adds a touch of visual flair and subtle aroma. They elevate your cocktails from casual to impressively crafted with minimal effort.

Freshness Matters Dried herbs can lose their potency over time, resulting in a dull and muted flavour in your drinks. Fresh herbs, on the other hand, guarantee a vibrant and alive taste experience in every sip.

Herb-Infused Summer Cocktails

6 Easy Cocktail Recipes for Summer

1. Basil Gin Smash.

Ingredients:

• 50ml gin

• 10 fresh basil leaves

• 25ml freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 20ml simple syrup

• Soda water

• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Muddle the basil leaves in a cocktail shaker to release their flavour.

2. Add the gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.

3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well.

4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.

5. Top up with soda water and garnish with a sprig of basil.
   

2. Rosemary Grapefruit Paloma.

Ingredients:

• 60ml tequila

• 120ml fresh grapefruit juice

• 15ml lime juice

• 15ml rosemary simple syrup (see below)

• Club soda

• Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish

• Ice cubes

Rosemary Simple Syrup:

1. Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 3-4 rosemary sprigs in a saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

3. Remove from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes.

4. Strain and let cool.

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and rosemary simple syrup.

2. Fill with ice and shake well.

3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.

4. Top up with club soda.

5. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig.

3. Mint Julep.

Ingredients:

• 60ml bourbon

• 10 fresh mint leaves

• 15ml simple syrup

• Crushed ice

• Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle the mint leaves and simple syrup in a julep cup.

2. Fill the cup with crushed ice.

3. Add the bourbon and stir until the cup is frosty.

4. Garnish with a sprig of mint.
   

4. Thyme and Cucumber Collins.

Ingredients:

• 50ml gin

• 25ml freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 20ml thyme simple syrup (see below)

• Soda water

• Cucumber slices

• Fresh thyme sprig

• Ice cubes

Thyme Simple Syrup:

1. Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and a handful of thyme sprigs in a saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

3. Remove from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes.

4. Strain and let cool.

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine gin, lemon juice, and thyme simple syrup.

2. Fill with ice and shake well.

3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.

4. Top up with soda water.

5. Garnish with cucumber slices and a sprig of thyme.

5. Lavender Lemonade.

Ingredients:

• 50ml vodka

• 25ml freshly squeezed lemon juice

• 20ml lavender simple syrup (see below)

• Soda water

• Fresh lavender sprig for garnish

• Ice cubes

Lavender Simple Syrup:

1. Combine 1 cup of water, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of dried lavender in a saucepan.

2. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves.

3. Remove from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes.

4. Strain and let cool.

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine vodka, lemon juice, and lavender simple syrup.

2. Fill with ice and shake well.

3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.

4. Top up with soda water.

5. Garnish with a fresh lavender sprig.

6. Coriander Pineapple Mojito.

Ingredients:

• 60ml white rum

• 10 fresh coriander leaves

• 25ml freshly squeezed lime juice

• 20ml simple syrup

• 60ml pineapple juice

• Soda water

• Fresh pineapple slice for garnish

• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Muddle the coriander leaves and simple syrup in a shaker.

2. Add the rum, lime juice, and pineapple juice.

3. Fill with ice and shake well.

4. Strain into a glass filled with ice.

5. Top up with soda water.

6. Garnish with a fresh pineapple slice.

6 Easy Summer Cocktail Recipes with Herbs. Summary.

Herb-infused cocktails are a delightful way to celebrate summer, offering both refreshing flavours and aromatic experiences. With a little creativity and a handful of fresh herbs, you can transform your summer cocktails from ordinary to extraordinary.

So, grab your muddler, unleash your inner alchemist, and embark on a delicious journey of herb-infused cocktail exploration. This summer, let your garden be your bar cart and celebrate the season with a refreshing glass of herbal magic in hand. Cheers to a flavourful and refreshing summer.

Fresh herbs for summer cocktails delivered to your door.

Craving a taste of summer magic? Look no further than your own cocktail shaker and fresh herbs from Pepperpot Herbs Nursery. Our herb selection is bursting with life, offering the freshest pickings to elevate your summer soirées.

Visit www.pepperpotherbplants.co.uk today and discover the vibrant world of herbs waiting to transform your cocktails into sensory masterpieces.