Pretty cocktails for easy entertaining
Big-batch pitcher recipes will make any occasion special
I’m always on the lookout for ways to remove stress when friends come over. I scour my files for recipes I can make in advance, set out the serving dishes and make notes to keep myself organized.
This summer, I’m embracing cocktails that can be mostly assembled ahead of time and chilled in pretty pitchers.
In most cases, these pitcher cocktails get a flourish of something sparkling just before serving to make them light and refreshing.
When adding that sparkling element, I like to place a card with assembly instructions near the pitchers with their accompaniment — glass rimmers and ice so guests can serve themselves.
Less stress yields a better party for all.
These cocktails allow guests to choose how strong (or weak) to make their beverages and add an interactive element to your party.
In addition to being easy and fun for guests, pitcher cocktails also help with party budgets. Top-shelf brands of liquor and wine are not necessary when mixing them with juices. Use moderately priced products — local if you have that option — and fresh juices.
Another benefit of pitcher cocktails is that the amount of alcohol in these drinks can be adjusted to taste.
Except for the red wine spritzer, these cocktails can be prepared without the alcohol, transforming them into mocktails everyone will love. Just replace the booze with an equal amount of seltzer, coconut water, iced tea or kombucha.
For a successful cocktail gathering, serve hearty appetizers alongside your beverages. Meat and cheese pinwheels, chilled crab dip with pita chips and a classic cheese ball can be made ahead of time.
A charcuterie board filled with cured sausage slices and soft cheese, as well as bowls of nuts and olives offer salty counterpoints for sweet cocktails. They are always a great go-to.