Horchata
This sweet drink has been one of my favorites since I was a young girl and now my boys love it! We have so many great Mexican restaurants all around us that serve horchata- but I found that I needed to make this in bulk at home to keep everyone happy, including me! I like to make a big batch of this around the holiday. It is such a fun drink for kids and can be quickly made into a celebratory drink with a little shot of whiskey.
Classic Sweet Lemonade
Spring is here, the citrus is booming, and I am lucky enough to have neighbors that share from their abundant lemon trees. This time of year, I am making a lot of lemonade, but I am also squeezing and freezing fresh lemon juice so that I can make a quick delicious lemonade at a moment's notice. Always nice to have something to offer when a friend stops by.
Lavender Lemonade
I make a big batch of lavender lemonade every year during harvest time. Harvest takes place by my parents’ house in the heat of summer, and many friends come to lend a hand. A big,...
Elderberry Spritzer (non-alcoholic)
This is a very refreshing, beautiful summer drink. It is fun to keep this simple syrup in your refrigerator to make spritzers all week. The deep red and purple color and elderberry flavor transform a...
Santa Rosa Plum Margarita
In the first week of August of every year, Santa Barbara celebrates Old Spanish Days Fiesta! It is a time when the town remembers its heritage and history. It has always been my favorite time in Santa Barbara. I began to be involved as a flower girl when I was seven and later danced flamenco in a company for many years. I was so lucky to be able to dance on the Mission steps, in the Courthouse Sunken Gardens and at in front of the de La Guerra Plaza where my ancestors once resided. I loved going to the parade, which is the largest equine parade in the United States and of course going to the Rodeo. Along with the dancing and horses, fiesta is not complete without good food and a margarita.
Mulberry Summer Cocktail
This cocktail is the perfect way to celebrate the beginning of summer. Mulberries have a short season, so these delicate long dark red berries are a delicacy for this region. I have found that they never last long at home, so when I get them I usually cook them into a simple syrup to preserve their flavor.