Simple Strawberry Cocktails For Summertime

Recently The Hedonistic Bar was asked for some cocktail recipes that utilized the bounty of fresh strawberries that are in season this time of year. So out to the garden we went to pick some strawberries and fresh herbs and here are two  simple easy to make cocktails that we came up with for you to enjoy.

Strarwberry Mojito

2 oz. light rum

1 oz. simple syrup

4-6 mint leaves (we prefer the Mojito Mint)

3-5 medium strawberries

juice of 1/2 fresh lime

club soda

In a mixing glass combine mint leaves, strawberries, and simple syrup. Lightly muddle until mint is very fragrant. You are looking to bruise the mint to release the aroma and flavor and crush the strawberries, but not so much that you create a mint strawberry paste. Add rum and the juice of 1/2 a lime. Add ice and shake until well chilled. Serve in an Collins glass and top with club soda. Garnish with fresh mint and frozen strawberries. For a smoother drink, double strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove strawberry pulp and seeds. 

Bourbon Basil-Strawberry Lemonade

2 oz. wheated bourbon, we prefer Old Heaven Hill

juice of 1 fresh lemon

1 oz. simple syrup

1 oz. cold water

3 large sweet basil leaves

5 medium strawberries

In a mixing glass combine basil leaves, strawberries, and simple syrup. Lightly muddle until basil is very fragrant. You are looking to bruise the basil to release the aroma and flavor and crush the strawberries, but not so much that you create a basil strawberry paste. Add bourbon and the juice of 1 a lemon. Add ice and shake until well chilled. Garnish with fresh basil and lemon slice. For a smoother drink, double strain through a fine mesh strainer to remove strawberry pulp and seeds.