Summer is in the air and it’s that time of year to cool down with some refreshing Stoli cocktails and light small bites for the patio or beach. I love melon in the Summer time, especially paired with cucumbers with their light flavors that make a great refreshing cocktail.
I created a Cucumber-Melon Martini that’s made with Stoli vodka, cucumber liqueur, agave cayenne lemonade (or regular lemonade or limeade), garnished with cucumbers, mint and cubes of honeydew melon. It has a hint of sweetness from the lemonade and a lovely refreshing flavor from the melons and cucumbers and a spike of minty freshness and kick of heat from the cayenne lemonade.
A great small bite pairing to go with the martinis are Prosciutto, Melon and Feta Bites. They’re super easy to make and just as light and refreshing as the cocktails that go with them.
A little bit sweet, a little bit tangy and a whole lot delicious. Here’s to the lazy days of Summer! ENJOY 🙂
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Stoli Cucumber-Melon Martini
1 part Stoli vodka
1 part cucumber liqueur
2 parts lemonade or limeade
Garnish with Cucumber slices, honeydew melon cubes and fresh mint sprigs
Pour vodka and lemon or limeade into a drink shaker over ice. Shake well and strain into martini glasses. Drop cubes of melon into the martini. Garnish with cucumber slices and fresh mint sprigs.
Makes 1 cocktail.
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Prosciutto-Melon-Feta Bites
1 package of prosciutto, sliced thin and cut in half (about 20 slices)
1 package of feta cheese, sliced into ¼ inch sliced cubes
8 ounces honeydew melon, cubed
8 ounces cantaloupe melon, cubed
Prep all ingredients by cutting the feta cheese and melons into similar size chunks. First layer the melon with the feta, then top with a slice of prosciutto folded into small squares and secure with toothpicks. Serve on a platter along with the Cucumber-Melon Martinis.
Makes approximately 20 small bites.
Note: You can also include watermelon in the mix for some extra flavor or serve the bites over arugula with a cucumber melon vinaigrette. Simply throw the melon and cucumber slices in a blender with some olive oil and vinegar, a dash of salt and pepper; then drizzle over the bites.
Happy Summer!!!