America’s Independence is a hell of a reason to have a drink. Chances are, you’re going to be doing something outside with a cooler stocked with beer. Maybe something from our massive pilsner blind tasting And there’s nothing wrong with spending the day drinking beer. But there’s also nothing wrong with whipping up a refreshing cocktail or two. I’m not talking about an intricate affair where you need a bowtie and muddler and the essence of a rare flower for a garnish. I’m talking about cocktails that are easy to make and built for a party. Here are three fast and easy cocktails we love on a hot summer day. We suggest pairing them with fireworks.
Backyard Lemonade
Recipe by Sailor Jerry Rum
Ingredients
2 parts Sailor Jerry rum
3 parts fresh squeezed lemonade (or you know, store-bought)
Directions: This is an easy cocktail to scale up and serve in a pitcher, or serve as an individual drink. Either way, combine all parts in a glass with ice and stir.
Angry Bootlegger
Recipe and photo via Angry Orchard Hard Cider
Ingredients
6 oz. Angry Orchard Crisp Apple Cider
1 oz. Sweet Tea Vodka
.5 oz. lemon juice
2 thin slices of peaches
2 thin lemon wheels
Directions: Pour all of the ingredients in a mason jar over ice and stir. Add peach slices and lemon wheels as a garnish.
Watermelon Margarita
Photo and recipe via Sauza Tequila
Ingredients
1 cup Sauza Tequila
.5 cup Lime juice
.5 cup Triple sec
1 cup Watermelon juice
Drop of honey
Directions: Fill a pitcher with ice, add the ingredients and stir. Serve in a salt-rimmed glass with a watermelon wedge garnish.