Spiked Summertime Lemonade by the Pool
Weekend afternoons and evenings spent poolside with family and friends are a treat that only summer can afford and nothing screams summertime-fun more than lemonade. This sweet and tart childhood favorite turned boozy adult cocktail will be your new favorite warm-weather refresher.
Invite friends over for poolside fun late in the afternoon when the intense heat of the day begins to die down. No need to worry with a bunch of fussy decorations, let the pool be the star. Be sure to have fresh towels out for guests and brightly colored floats in the pool. Serve light and refreshing food (like fruit skewers and cucumber dip) before cranking up the grill for burgers and hot dogs.
Make a big batch of lemonade for the group and display it in a drink dispenser like this Mason Jar from Pottery Barn.
Use outdoor glassware so no one has to worry about breaking a glass by the pool (I love these Hobnail Acrylic Glasses from Pottery Barn in turquoise) and always have a designated adult watching swimmers!
Spiked Summertime Lemonade
serves 8 to 10
1 cup sugar 1 cup water, plus 7 cups 6 lemons, juiced 2 cups Vodka Ice cubes Optional garnishes: pomegranate juice, fresh lemon slices, mint, or strawberries
In a saucepan over a medium heat, combine 1 cup sugar and 1 cup water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then turn down to a simmer until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
In a pitcher or drink dispenser, combine the syrup, 7 cups water, lemon juice, vodka, and ice and stir to combine. Garnish with a splash of pomegranate juice, fresh lemon slices, mint, or strawberries.