Lucky gardeners have an abundance of summer mint. Crush some leaves in your fingers to release an invigorating aroma. Make desserts . Add to savory dishes. Have some refreshing mint iced tea – this is my favorite way to keep the plants trimmed. Allowing them to flower cuts down on leaf production and, therefore, you have less mint to enjoy. Continue reading
Brandy and cognac seem well suited for chilly weather. Picture yourself seated by a crackling fire and imagine ordering an icy prosecco. No? Well, how about a snifter of brandy? Ah,that’s more like it. Continue reading
Before my basil succumbs to wilt and frost permanently, I’ve got one more recipe for you. Basil Black Pepper Whiskey Cocktail is a pleasantly spicy herbal beverage which goes with all nibbles and appetizers. Continue reading
The merits of winter come together in this Sesame Sake Apple Cocktail. Sesame, dark and rich, savory in contrast to the spare sweetness of this drink. Sake, often served warm with tasty dishes. Apple brandy, from the fruit that begins its journey in autumn and delights with crunch and versatility all winter long. A nip of tart fresh lemon juice makes this cool beverage a symphony of all the flavors. Continue reading
Seasonal eating is always preferred, but I confess a fondness for watermelon all year long. Watermelon (and its juice) is available perennially at most grocery stores. The bright pink elixir of juice, mixed into cocktails or mocktails, brings fond memories of balmy summertime. Continue reading
A good cocktail recipe becomes a mocktail recipe when you remove the alcohol and add something refreshing like fizzy water. Readers of River City Good Eats notice alcohol- free variations in my cocktail recipes. Today’s White Pepper Grape Cocktail is no different. Flexibility is key in gracious entertaining, I say. Continue reading
Make these Garlic Parmesan Pecans to go with your Cranberry Apple Brandy Cocktail. These savory nuts are easy and they last for weeks at room temperature. I’ll bet you already have all the ingredients in your kitchen. Continue reading
Holiday entertaining season begins this week. Here’s a refreshing beverage to accompany your homemade appetizers. This Cranberry Apple Brandy Cocktail hits all the right notes and goes with everything. Continue reading
A summer cocktail with the subtle, yet distinctive, flavors of cucumber and rosewater requires a special spirit. Sugarcane-based rum is too sweet and tequila from the agave plant is too strong. Continue reading
Nearly all cocktail recipes in this collection of recipes may be enjoyed alcohol-free as mocktails. Today’s Clementine Cardamom Cocktail is no exception. This is a good thing, for kids and everyone else who avoids spirits. An attractive seasonal beverage, with or without spirits, is a reliable conversation starter and always welcome at the table. What made you think of these flavors? Very likely whatever is in season and paired with herbs and spices not used in past recipes. Continue reading