We had quite a fun time celebrating the July 4th holiday, complete with a small town parade, superhero-themed arts and crafts, music, good food and friends at a local park. The sun, blue skies and festive spirit have me in the mood for a breezy cocktail.
Earlier this week, I discovered the first beautiful, juicy peaches of the season. Yes! This also means it’s Peach Dumplings time, always a top favorite. We happily indulged this week.
Now, I love cocktails that include fresh fruit, and what with a couple of peaches left over from dumpling-making, well ... you know where my thoughts wandered.
My husband loves both peaches and mint, so with Bob in mind I was inspired to combine them and create a fun and refreshing drink. A bottle of Lillet beckoned from the fridge. I like the slightly floral, citrus flavor of this aperitif and thought it would pair well with the bright fruitiness of peaches and mint. A squeeze of lime and dash of club soda finished the cooler off.
Light, a little bit sweet, this is perfect to sip on warm, lazy evening. Cheers!
Minty Peach Cooler
Serves 4
2 very ripe peaches, peeled and diced
1/2 cup fresh mint, roughly chopped plus extra to garnish
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
8 ounces Lillet Blanc, chilled
Club soda to top off
In a bowl, combine the peaches, mint and honey and muddle with the handle of a wooden spoon. Leave to macerate for 15 minutes or so.
Pull out 4 pretty cocktail glasses or Mason jars. Add 1 tablespoon lime juice to each, followed by 2 ounces of Lillet each. Divide the peach mixture evenly between the glasses. Stir to mix. Add a few ice cubes to each and top off with club soda. Garnish with mint leaves. Clink your glasses and start sipping.
