I am a sucker for pretty drinks, and for vodka in general. This is why I always choose the pretty colored, most expensive martinis on the menu as a general rule. Since I’ve been really into blood oranges lately, we’ve had tons in the house. So when I’m in the kitchen I feel like they are just calling my name and begging to be used. So I’ll just whip up one of these little drinks for dinner because the flavor is so delicious.
you will need:
1½ ounces citrus flavored vodka
1 ounce grand marnier
1½ ounces simple syrup (see below)
2 ounces blood orange juice (2 oranges)
splash of sparkling mineral water/club soda
To make a simple syrup: Combine equal parts of sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat (I usually do 1 cup). Bring mixture to a boil until sugar is dissolved, turn off the heat and let mixture cool completely. You can store the syrup in an air tight container in your fridge for a while. You can also add flavoring to the syrup if you wish.
In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, grand mariner, simple syrup and blood orange juice. Shake for about 30 seconds or so. Fill a glass with ice. Pour mixture over ice and top off with some sparkling water. Garnish with an orange slice if you wish and serve!
If I’m having a night where I want a tasty drink, but not the booze, I’ll just mix the orange juice with some of the simple syrup and combine it with a larger amount of the sparkling water. It’s a nice alternative to just water or pop.
*if you like the idea of this little cocktail, check out Jessica’s recipe for a blood orange margarita…I’ve made it, and it’s yummy!
serves: 1 (but easily multiplied)
time: 5 minutes
from: a variety of drinks I’ve tasted and read about
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