Summer-Perfect TROPICAL SIPS

Serve up one of these creative and mouthwatering tipples at your next alfresco gathering

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As much as we love an icecold margarita or frozen piña colada on a warm summer night, we would never turn down a new drink that looks and sounds delicious. So we were thrilled to find the recipes in Tiki With a Twist. “Our fun, lighthearted book encourages you to escape, if only for an hour, to some faraway island brimming with sunshine, rum and sparkling water,” says author and tiki bar owner Lynn Calvo. “Let’s toast to finding your own tropical paradise, wherever it may be, while you soak up the sun and get inspired to create your own tiki cocktails to enjoy with loved ones on that sandy beach someplace — even if it’s in your own backyard.” Sip on one of these sensations alfresco tonight!

COCONUT CUCUMBER MOJITO

Serves 1

5 fresh mint leaves

3 fresh lime wheels

3 fresh cucumber wheels, plus more for garnish, if desired

½ oz. agave nectar or runny honey

2 oz. coconut rum Club soda, chilled

1 sprig mint, for garnish

1 (4") sugarcane stalk, for garnish (optional)

1. Place the mint leaves, lime wheels, cucumber wheels and agave nectar in a large rocks glass. Muddle gently.

2. Fill the glass with crushed ice and add the coconut rum.