Now that it’s officially summer, let the outdoor entertaining begin! These two easy-to-make refreshments taste as good as they look.
YOU’LL NEED:
2 cucumbers
1 bundle of mint
1 package of basil
3-4 lemons
2 gallons water
2 jugs of lemonade (I like Simply Lemonade)
2 drink dispensers (mine above are from World Market)
Ice
1-gallon thermos
Wood spoon
Also:
Chalkboard placecards
Stripey straws
HOW TO MAKE:
I prepare both the night before, then complete an hour or so before the event.
Cucumber Mint Water: Cut the cucumbers into thin slices, and pour with water into a 1- gallon thermos. Put in refrigerator and let chill overnight. An hour or so before your event, pour the mixture and additional water into one of the drink dispensers. Add ice and sprigs of mint, mix, and let sit in the sun for the flavors to really absorb.
Basil Lemonade: I use pre-made lemonade to make my life easier, but feel free to make your own! I’ll usually slice the lemons the night before and stick into a plastic bag with some of the lemonade, chilling it overnight. An hour or so before your event, pour the mixture and additional lemonade into the other drink dispenser. Add basil leaves and ice, mix, and let sit in the sun for the flavors to absorb.
I keep the extra water, lemonade and ice in a cooler nearby for refills.
Enjoy!
Photo by Jennifer Brechtel Papageorge
