Using homemade rosemary-infused simple syrup, Meyer lemons, and sparkling wine in place of triple sec, this enhanced version of a lemon drop is perfect for sipping poolside!  It tastes best with all ingredients pre-chilled, so it will require some forethought beforehand, but you can also mix the batch ahead of time and place the pitcher in the fridge to chill.  You can whip up endless variations of this drink by infusing different herbs in the simple syrup, using a flavored vodka, or even make it a mocktail by using zero-proof vodka or tonic water.

Ingredients:

For the simple syrup:

• 1 c. water
• 1/3 c. sugar
• 1 rosemary sprig

For the cocktail:

• Simple syrup, chilled
• 1 c. fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice (about 8 lemons), chilled
• 1/3 c. vodka, chilled
• 2 c. prosecco or sparkling wine, chilled
• Rosemary sprigs, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

For the simple syrup:

1. Add water, sugar, and rosemary sprig to a large glass measuring cup or other microwave-safe container. 
2. Microwave on high for 2 ½ minutes. Stir until sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Let stand for 10 minutes, then discard the rosemary and place in refrigerator to chill.

For the cocktail:

1. In a large pitcher, add simple syrup, Meyer lemon juice, vodka, and wine.
2. Stir gently to combine. Pour over ice and garnish with rosemary sprigs, if desired.

Note: For an extra splash of flavor, toss a few of the squeezed lemon rinds into the pitcher before stirring.

The post Sparkling Meyer Lemon Drop Cocktail Recipe appeared first on Yarden.

With its dry and woody flavors, gin can be an acquired taste for many, but using Meyer lemons in place of regular in this classic cocktail gives it a sweeter and less acidic taste.  It makes for a bright and refreshing drink that perfectly balances the botanical tastes of the gin.  Think of it as a boozy, fizzy lemonade!

Ingredients:

• 4 oz. gin
• 2 oz. freshly squeezed Meyer lemon juice
• 1 oz. simple syrup
• 1 c. club soda, to taste
• Sprig of rosemary or thyme for garnish, optional

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
2. Add lemon juice, simple syrup, and gin to the shaker.  Cover with lid and shake well.
3. Pour mixture into two glasses over ice.
4. Top off the glasses with club soda to taste and garnish, if desired.

The post Meyer Lemon Tom Collins Recipe appeared first on Yarden.

Nothing compares to a crisp, refreshing glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade on ice.  This recipe has two twists for an elevated take on classic lemonade – using Meyer lemons with their sweet, floral qualities, and garnishing with rosemary sprigs for a peppery note.  Easy and elegant!

You can use storebought simple syrup for an even quicker prep time, but if you don’t have it on hand, we’ve included an easy homemade simple syrup recipe you can make in bulk and store. 

After you squeeze the lemons, save the rinds.  Citrus fruits contain oil in their rinds that have an incredible flavor. Squeezing the lemons brings the oil to the surface of the rind, so tossing them into the mixture will add an extra bright flavor to the lemonade.

Keep in mind that rosemary has a very strong flavor and can quickly overpower a recipe.  Less is more with this recipe, as you want to complement the flavor of the Meyer lemons, not smother it.

Ingredients:

• ½ c. fresh squeezed Meyer lemon juice (about 3 lemons)
• 1 c. simple syrup (see recipe below)
• 4 c. water
• Rosemary sprigs, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add lemon juice, simple syrup, and water to a large pitcher.  Stir to combine. 
2. Add squeezed lemon rinds and give a final stir.
3. Chill until ready to serve or serve immediately by pouring over ice.  Garnish each glass with a sprig of rosemary.

Simple Syrup Recipe

This recipe yields about 3 cups of simple syrup and will keep for months if a sterile jar is used for storing.  Try adding different flavors like lavender or mint during the simmering process to make your own flavor-infused syrups!

Ingredients:

• 2 c. water
• 2 c. sugar

Instructions:

1. Add water and sugar to a medium saucepan. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer over low heat.
2. Simmer for 15-20 seconds, then remove from heat.
3. Allow to cool, then transfer to a sterile glass jar.  Store in refrigerator.

The post Rosemary Meyer Lemonade Recipe appeared first on Yarden.

Did you know that margaritas are the most popular cocktail in America?  Try a calamansi margarita for a tropical twist on this classic favorite.  The tartness of the calamansi juice adds a bright kick.  Try pairing this cocktail with grilled seafood or your favorite spicy dish. If you prefer a frozen margarita, toss the ingredients in a blender with the ice instead! 

This recipe makes two servings, but feel free to double or triple the recipe as needed, especially if blending.

Ingredients:

• 3 oz tequila blanco
• 1 ½ oz calamansi juice, fresh squeezed
• 1 ½ oz agave syrup (or simple syrup)
• 1 oz orange liqueur (such as triple sec or Cointreau)
• 1 oz lime juice, fresh squeezed
• Coarse salt or sugar, for rim
• Calamansi slices, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a shaker with ice. Add tequila, calamansi and lime juices, agave syrup, and orange liqueur and shake well.
2. Place salt or sugar on a plate slightly larger than the rim of your glasses.  Rub one of the squeezed calamansi halves over the rim of your glasses, then dip in the salt mixture to coat rim.
3. Add ice to two glasses and pour mixture over. Garnish with calamansi slices and enjoy!

The post Calamansi Margaritas Recipe appeared first on Yarden.