As summer rolls around, there's nothing more satisfying than quenching your thirst with a refreshing homemade drink.
Imagine sipping on a glass of icy lemonade infused with aromatic herbs or indulging in a fruity cocktail garnished with fresh mint leaves.
The secret to elevating your summer beverages lies in growing your own plants to add a burst of natural flavours. In this blog, we'll explore the top plants to cultivate in your garden that will transform your summer drinks into delightful, invigorating concoctions.
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Mint: When it comes to summer drinks, mint is a true champion. Its cooling and invigorating flavour profile makes it a perfect addition to various beverages. Mint leaves effortlessly infuse cocktails, mock-tails, lemonades, and iced teas with their unique aroma and refreshing taste. From classic Mojitos to revitalising Mint Juleps, growing your own mint plants ensures a constant supply of this versatile herb.
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Basil: Basil, with its aromatic and slightly sweet flavour, is another herb that shines in summer drinks. The vibrant green leaves of basil add depth and complexity to cocktails like the popular Strawberry Basil Smash or a refreshing Cucumber Basil Lemonade. With various basil varieties available, such as sweet basil, Thai basil, and lemon basil, you can experiment with different flavours and discover your favorite combinations.
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Lemon Verbena: If you're seeking a citrusy twist for your summer drinks, lemon verbena is the perfect choice. This herb boasts a strong lemon fragrance that infuses beautifully into teas, sparkling water, and cocktails. Try adding a sprig of lemon verbena to your homemade lemonade or incorporating it into a zesty mojito for a burst of bright flavours.
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Rosemary: Known for its woody aroma and distinct flavour, rosemary can add a touch of sophistication to your summer drinks. Its earthy notes pair exceptionally well with citrus-based beverages, making it a fantastic choice for spritzers and cocktails. A simple Rosemary Grapefruit Spritzer or a refreshing Rosemary Paloma will transport your taste buds to new heights of delight.
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Lavender: Lavender, with its delicate floral scent and soothing properties, is an excellent herb to grow for summer drinks. It lends a unique and elegant touch to lemonades, iced teas, and even cocktails. The Purple Haze cocktail, featuring lavender-infused gin, is just one example of how this fragrant herb can elevate your drink-making endeavours.
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Cilantro: Cilantro, beloved for its bright and citrusy flavour, is a versatile herb that can add a zing to your summer beverages. It complements tropical fruit juices, such as pineapple or mango, and adds a refreshing twist to margaritas or mojitos. A cilantro-infused cucumber cooler or a cilantro-limeade will bring a burst of freshness to your summer gatherings.
With an array of herbs readily available, growing your own plants for summer drinks can elevate your home bartending skills to new heights. Mint, basil, lemon verbena, rosemary, lavender, and cilantro are just a few examples of plants that can transform your beverages into refreshing, flavourful creations.
Embrace the joy of cultivating your own garden and experiment with various combinations to create unique summer sips that will impress your family and friends. Cheers to a season filled with delicious, garden-inspired drinks!
Cheers
Phil
Founder of All Gardening
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The Growing All Gardening podcast with Phil Argent. Short personal stories, moments, ideas discussed. Just you and me. No ads, no guests.
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