Maybe its because I live in Los Angeles where almost everything is acceptable… but recently, just this summer in fact, with the help of a few of my local friends (you know who you are) I have discovered how wonderful everything can be with a little cocktail every once in a while in the middle of the afternoon on a day off. I always thought it was weird that people who have wine with lunch, or mimosas with brunch… but now I realize just how wonderful a great little concoction can be when shared with a handful of good friends on a random afternoon.
Just this past weekend a friend of mine gave me about 10 pounds of lemons from their tree. I went right home and make Strawberry Basil Lemonade, because really, what else is better than that. But then I still had about 1/2 of the lemons left so I racked my brain and decided to make Balsamic Lemonade cocktails. They rival the strawberry basil lemonade too… they are just that good!
Recently we have had great weather down in sunny So Cal… its been warm and sunny and perfect beach weather. I don’t know about you… but a crisp cool and refreshing cocktail is the perfect way to cool down on a summer day. And this Balsamic Lemonade with a hit of Vodka did just the job! It’s for sure a new part of my weekend routine!
Balsamic Lemonade + Vodka Cocktail
Ingredients
- 10 lemons juiced, approx 1 cup of lemon juice
- 3/4 cup super fine sugar
- 4 cups water
- 1 - 2 tsp Balsamic Vinegar start with 1 tsp, test it, and add more if desired
- 1 cup vodka optional
Instructions
- Combine the lemon juice, sugar and water in a large pitcher and mix to combine. Add the Balsamic Vinegar and taste. Adjust amount of balsamic if needed. Add the vodka and stir.
Is it wrong that I want one at 9:17am?
hahahaha not at all!!
I’m always looking for simple, delicious summer cocktails, and this one sounds right up my alley! I like how it doesn’t sound like it’s too sweet, either. Thanks for the recipe!
Its def not too sweet – but it is super refreshing!
Now that is a drink!
yum, can you bring these to the farmers market this morning? love the photo!
Everything is definitely better with a cocktail! Love it!!
I wonder if my boss would mind serving these at lunch today??????
Maybe it’s our age (or level of stress) but I think a cocktail (day or night) is a WONDERFUL thing. Beautiful photo! I hope you and T got to enjoy those gorgeous drinks soon after!
Even though I no longer drink, I can tell that this cocktail would be one I would LOVE!! Your combo of flavors sounds great. Even without cocktail in hand I get wonderfully giddy when I am around you guys.
This looks so cool and refreshing… Mixing up different ingredients for cocktails is so much fun to play around with, and I love your addition of balsamic vinegar – Definintely gonna have to give this a try before summer’s up!
A little midday cocktail works wonders for my energy level. Will have to give this recipe a try.
This looks so great and so easy! Can’t wait to try this!
I’m so lucky we picked up a whole liter of Grey Goose Vodka last week…This just looks so refreshing. Perfect for a drink on the patio. Is it wrong that I want to drink one now, while my two kiddos are napping and hubby is at work? 🙂
bring me one tomorro please.
Lemonade and vodka! Can you really go wrong? I don’t think so. The balsamic looks like an interesting twist on a favorite.
I was totally going to bring a big jar of this to class! But then it was canceled!! what?!? xoxo
Sounds delightful!
Another great cocktail to put on my list. You Californians are so lucky to actually GROW lemons!
Why do you keep tempting me with all these delicious drink recipes!! Keep them coming!
What a fabulous way to share a fresh bounty of lemons. Vodka! Yes please <3
Balsamic vinegar in a cocktail? That’s brilliant! I am going to have to try this out.
Have you tried using your strawberry basil lemonade with the balsalmic vinegar instead?
oooo no I’ve never tried that! But I bet it would be delish!
unbelievably incredibly awesome! ive dreamed of this for years, but for some reason didnt think vinegar in a drink would work (though i actually maybe kinda sorta have been known to drink vinegar….) my version: meyer lemon juice from my tree, hibiscus infused white balsamic vinegar, good vodka, a touch of raw/amber agave nectar, and whatever flavored fizzy water you like (i’ll go with lemon). please name it after me!
Sounds like a great recipe! I think I have all the ingredients to try this tonight when some friends come over. Thanks for sharing!
sound like a great recipe. I was researching some drinks and stumbled across this one thanks!!