Refreshing Cocktails for Summer

Picture this: Summer is finally here and you’re lying on the beach, golden skin soaking up the rays and waves crashing in the background. The only thing that would make this picture complete would be the perfect elixir to cool and relax you under the scorching sun. This summer get creative (and hydrated!) by making these summer cocktails that are both refreshing and easy to do. So break out the blender, gather some spirits and take advantage of the variety of fresh fruit at the market only available this season.

Summer Cocktails

Summer Cocktail #1 - The Mango Dream

By Gary Regan and Mardee Haidin Regan

Created in 1996 by Alfredo Ayala, chef-owner of Chayote Restaurante, San Juan, Puerto Rico. Makes one cocktail.

Ingredients

• 1 ounce white Puerto Rican Rum
• 1 ounce anejo Puerto Rican Rum
• ½ ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1 ½ ounces freshly squeezed orange juice
• ¼ cup (2 ounces) mango puree (see note)
• ½ ounce simple syrup (optional)
• 1 tarragon sprig, for garnish

Fill a large shaker glass two-thirds full of ice. Pour in both rums, both juices, the puree and the simple syrup. Shake until blended and well chilled. Strain the drink into an ice-filled goblet; garnish with the tarragon sprig. Serve at once.

Note: To make mango puree, peel one ripe mango and cut the flesh away from the flat seed. Place the flesh in a blender or food processor and puree until smooth. Usually, one mango will produce one cup of puree.

Simple Syrup
Makes 2 ¾ cups