Sip in Style: Best Summer Cocktails from RPM Living

As the sun heats up and days grow longer, there’s nothing better than cooling off with a refreshing cocktail. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a BBQ on your patio, these summer cocktails will elevate your gatherings.

At RPM Living, we believe that the perfect drink can enhance your living experience. So, let’s dive into some of the best summer cocktail ideas, complete with ingredient lists, recipes, and pairing recommendations!

Classic Mojito

Ingredients

10 fresh mint leaves

1/2 lime, cut into 4 wedges

2 tablespoons white sugar

1 cup ice cubes

1 1/2 ounces white rum

1/2 cup club soda

Directions

Place mint leaves and one lime wedge into a glass. Use a muddler to crush the mint and lime to release the mint oils and lime juice.

Add two more lime wedges and the sugar, then muddle again to release the lime juice.

Do not strain the mixture. Fill the glass almost to the top with ice. Pour the rum over the ice, and fill the glass with club soda.

Stir, taste, and add more sugar if desired. Garnish with the remaining lime wedge.

Pairing

The Mojito's fresh and minty profile pairs beautifully with grilled seafood, particularly shrimp or fish tacos. The light and zesty flavor complements the smoky and spicy notes of grilled dishes.

Watermelon Basil Cooler

Ingredients

2 cups watermelon, cubed and chilled

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

1 ounce fresh lime juice

1 1/2 ounces vodka

1 tablespoon simple syrup

Ice

Club soda

Directions

In a blender, combine watermelon cubes and basil leaves. Blend until smooth.

Strain the mixture into a shaker filled with ice. Add lime juice, vodka, and simple syrup. Shake well.

Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda. Stir gently and garnish with a basil leaf.

Pairing

This drink's sweet and herbal notes make it an excellent match for a light summer salad with feta cheese and balsamic dressing. It’s also fantastic with grilled chicken or a fresh Caprese salad.

Pineapple Coconut Margarita

Ingredients

2 ounces tequila

1 ounce coconut cream

1 ounce pineapple juice

1 ounce lime juice

1 tablespoon agave syrup

Ice

Pineapple wedge and shredded coconut for garnish

Directions

In a shaker, combine tequila, coconut cream, pineapple juice, lime juice, and agave syrup. Fill with ice and shake well.

Strain into a glass filled with ice.

Garnish with a pineapple wedge and a sprinkle of shredded coconut.

Pairing

The tropical flavors of the Pineapple Coconut Margarita pair wonderfully with spicy foods like grilled jalapeño poppers or jerk chicken. The drink’s sweetness balances the heat perfectly.

Cucumber Mint Gin Fizz

Ingredients

1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced

6 fresh mint leaves

2 ounces gin

1 ounce fresh lime juice

1 ounce simple syrup

Club soda

Ice

Directions

In a shaker, muddle cucumber slices and mint leaves. Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice and shake vigorously.

Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda. Stir gently and garnish with a cucumber slice and mint sprig.

Pairing

This crisp and refreshing cocktail is a great match for light fare such as sushi or a quinoa salad with fresh vegetables. The drink’s herbal and citrus notes also complement grilled vegetable skewers.

Strawberry Lemonade Sangria

Ingredients

1 bottle white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)

1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 lemon, thinly sliced

1/4 cup brandy

1/4 cup simple syrup

2 cups lemonade

Ice

Directions

In a large pitcher, combine wine, strawberries, lemon slices, brandy, and simple syrup. Stir well and let sit for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Before serving, add lemonade and stir to combine. Fill glasses with ice and pour the sangria over the ice. Garnish with a lemon slice and a strawberry.

Pairing

The fruity and vibrant Strawberry Lemonade Sangria pairs perfectly with a variety of summer dishes. Try it with grilled salmon, a cheese platter, or a fresh berry dessert.

Summer is the season for fun, relaxation, and of course, great cocktails. At RPM Living, we’re all about creating an enjoyable living experience, and these cocktails are sure to add a touch of elegance to your summer gatherings. So grab your favorite glass, follow these recipes, and toast to a fantastic summer!

Looking for more ways to elevate your living experience? Explore our communities and amenities at RPM Living today! As always, if you’re looking to live in one of our luxury apartments, you can always shop RPM Living communities across the US by checking out our Communities page.

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