Summertime and the Livin's Easy

Today marks the first day of summer...and that means lots of culinary-related awesomeness. Farmers markets have started to spring up, and the booths have begun to fill with green and lush vegetation. Invitations to BBQs and backyard luaus have started to roll in, and the warm weather leans us towards refreshing salads, and maybe a few frozen cocktails! The livin's easy in the summertime, ain't it!?

from Flickr - by CubaGallery

In honor of summer, I thought I'd provide you with a delicious drink, to be enjoyed on a patio, terrace or porch...because what's better than a refreshing drink in the sunshine? My favorite summertime cocktail is the Sidecar. The drink's origins date back to World War I, and the Ritz Carlton Paris has laid claim to the recipe.

3/4 ounce Cognac (or Bourbon)

3/4 ounce orange liqueur (Cointreau, Grand Marnier or Triple Sec)

3/4 ounce lemon juice 

Served straight up in a martini glass, this drink is definitely meant to be sipped. It's strong, but very refreshing, and totally delicious!

from Wikipedia

Tip of the day: A lot of cocktail recipes describe their measurements in "jiggers." A jigger is 1.5 fluid ounces, or about one shot. Don't be afraid to use a shot glass to measure your drinks out until you get the hang of a recipe. Too heavy a hand can end poorly, and a light pour will have you making drinks more often then you planned!