THE 4TH OF JULY COCKTAIL

In the midst of planning this year’s Independence Day holiday, which I will very appropriately spend in the nation’s capital, I couldn’t help but remind myself why last year’s 4th of July was so memorable to me. I spent the day on our boat tubing, fishing, and water skiing on a lake about 45 minutes from my family’s house in Raleigh, North Carolina. That night, we hung out by our pool enjoying fresh watermelon we picked up from a farm on the way home. While the guys were grilling out with neighbors, my mom and I spontaneously decided to recreate a patriotic cocktail we always wanted to try… and it was definitely worth it. It is both pretty and effortless– we had all ingredients at home already!

4 oz Hpnotiq, 2 oz. Absolut Vodka, a splash of lime juice, and frozen strawberries used as ice

This festive drink is refreshing and light, and let’s be honest- the drinks you serve at your 4th of July soiree are almost as important as the great food and company you are celebrating with! My little sister sipped on a mocktail version of this drink which is just as tasty. Just substitute the Hpnotiq for blue Gatorade frost and Absolut with diet Sprite.

Happy summer days!