Watermelon Saffron Cooler

I have to admit, this Watermelon Saffron Cooler is about one year in the making. It started with some saffron simple syrup and a need for a sort of sweet and savory cocktail with saffron. And I nailed it. Finally. But finding the right blend that would accentuate the saffron without masking it took awhile. And a lot of ingredients. At one point there was a yellow tomato puree that you’re going to see in a very cool Bloody Mary; I tried out Crème De Violette, and rum, and tonic water… the list goes on. But I’m pleased to report that the Watermelon Saffron Cooler is ready, and well worth the wait. You’d do well to make the watermelon juice and saffron simple syrup ahead of time, while neither is time consuming, it’s nice to have everything ready to go and well-chilled before you’re ready to make the cocktails. And once you make your first batch of watermelon juice, you’re going to want to have it around all Summer long. I buy whole watermelons and juice one half right away. Just about a ¼ cup of the juice is the perfect addition to a glass of ice water. But even … Continue reading

Lemon Verbena Smash

Believe it or not, at least for the Dirty Laundry Kitchen, it’s time to thinking about the 4th of July, and what’s a better place to start than with this Lemon Verbena Smash cocktail. This past weekend, I was forced to spend my time picnicking and drinking Lemon Verbena Smash cocktails at the dog park so that the menu would be ready for you. It was torture I tell you. First up, the questions. Where did this Lemon Verbena Smash cocktail come from? What is lemon verbena? And what do I do if I can’t find any? Good questions. I love the flavor of the herb lemon verbena. It’s perfect for Summer drinks and desserts. It’s a little hard to find at regular grocery stores (my dad has to grow it for me). But it’s amazing, and you can often find the plants even at places like home depot. When I can’t get my hands on it, I substitute a combination of basil and mint leaves. They get the job done in creating a similar flavor that make the Lemon Verbena Smash so distinctly delicious and refreshing. I love to make Lemon Verbena Smash in a giant mason jar and bring … Continue reading