Summer is here! And as the temperatures rise, you can cool down by whipping up some deliciously refreshing, easy to make cocktails in your own home. In fact, due to the pandemic, there’s been an increase in house parties according to the Godrej Food Trends Report 2021. “Much as people want to go back to bars, there is definite uncertainty and entertaining at home with close friends and family is a trend we will continue to see,” says celebrity bartender Shatbhi Basu.

The report also predicts a significant increase in premium cocktail mixes and DIY kits in homes this year, with hospitality consultant Vishal Nagpal confident that, “With increased retail consumption, companies are focusing on more ways of reaching alcoholic beverages and experiences to these homes. Virtual appreciation sessions or groups to learn and appreciate choice of beverages will continue to grow into a separate market on its own.”

But until then, get your shopping list ready along with your guest list and follow these favourite summer cocktail recipes to kick-start the house parties from your kitchen:

Cucumber lime margarita

Peel and blend the cucumbers into a juice and then strain out the pulp using a sieve. Add lime juice, tequila and triple sec to your freshly squeezed cucumber juice, mix well and pour over ice to get a glass full of cool, green delight!

Mango pineapple mojito

Summer is aam season so pick your favourite variety, chop it up and then muddle it along with pineapple pieces, chopped limes, mint leaves and brown sugar. Stir in white rum and top it off with soda.

Coconut pineapple cooler

Another popular summer cocktail featuring pineapple, this one is a tropical crowd-pleaser! Mix freshly squeezed pineapple juice with coconut rum and gin; throw in some watermelon chunks and coriander sprigs for extra flavour.

Rosé sangria

Step aside red wine — it’s summer so we’re replacing it with a lighter, rosé variety in this recipe. Pop all your favourite fruits (especially peaches!) into a large jug along with the wine, some orange juice, orange liqueur and sugar. Chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving with a garnish of mint.

Watermelon gin spritzer

A simple yet mouth-watering cocktail, all you need is lime wedges, chopped watermelon, ice cubes, gin and tonic water. Mix them all up and your perfect summer cooler is ready to relish on a warm evening in the garden.

Are there any summer cocktails you would add to this list? Let us know in the comments section below.