Thirsty Thursday June 21st

This month we will concentrate a bit on herbs and strawberries.  Strawberries are in season now at your local farmers markets and stands.   Herbs are always in good supply.   We are also highlighting cucumber since it is light and refreshing and we are in a drought.   Pairing cucumber with a ghost pepper tequila may surprise you, but it is refreshing, bright, bubbly with a hint of heat on your lips.  It will cool you off!I also want to take the time to have you taste my simple syrup made with Stevia leaves instead of sugar. It is completely natural and sugar free.  If you are trying to cut sugar out of your diet and especially your "extra" calories that come from cocktails- be sure to have that conversation with me. Strawberry Moscow MuleIngredients:5 strawberries5 basil leaves1.5 oz VodkaJuice from ½ limeGinger beerIceDirections:Muddle strawberries and basil with a splash of the ginger beer & lime juice. Add the vodka, give a quick stir. Top with plenty of ice & ginger beer. Garnish with strawberries & basil.Cucumber Mint Gin CoolerIngredients:6 ounces gin1 cup cucumber cut into chunks, plus a few thinly sliced for garnish12 mint leaves plus more for garnish2 tablespoons sugar (or beet sugar)¼ cup fresh lemon juiceChilled Club soda waterIceDirections:In a blender, combine the cucumber chunks, the mint leaves, sugar and lemon juice. Puree until you have a smooth mixture.Fill two glasses with ice. Add 2 ounces of gin to each glass and the thinly sliced cucumbers. Fill the glasses to 2/3rds full with the cucumber mixture. Top with club soda and stir well.Garnish with fresh mint.Serves 3Thyme LemonadeIngredients:2 c. lemon juice (about 10 lemons)1.5 c. sugarBundle of thyme (plus sprigs for garnish)Directions:In a medium saucepan, bring sugar, thyme, and 1 cup water to a boil; stir until sugar is dissolved, about 2 minutes. Stir in lemon juice, gin (if using), and 6 cups cold water; strain into a large pitcher. Refrigerate until cold, at least 1 hour (and up to 1 week). Serve over ice, garnished with thyme sprigs, if desired.Ghost Pepper SpritzerIngredients:1.5 oz Ghost Pepper TequilaCucumber- cut in chunksLimeMintSoda waterDirections:Muddle a couple chunks of cucumber, 3 mint leaves, tequila and a squirt from half of lime. Strain into glass over ice and add soda water to taste.