Two summery cocktails for a hot night

Dinner at Eloise's place. Must find some nice cocktails. We decided on two fruity ones.

Carpe Diem

10 strawberries, hulled

2 tbsp sugar

1 vanilla pod, split and scraped

90 mL clear apple juice

30 mL lime juice

150mL gin

8 basil leaves, torn

Champagne or soda to serve

Basil leaves - to serve

Cucumber slices

Blend strawberries, sugar, lime juice, apple juice and vanilla bean until smooth. Pour into a 1L capacity jug. Add gin and basil and stir well. Top up the jug with champagne or sparkling water.

Serve over crushed ice in a tall glass. Garnish with a basil leaf and a slice of cucumber.

Ying Sling

This was definitely the favourite of the night. Not too sweet. Nice and strong. A little bitter. Beautiful pale pink. Super easy.

450 mL bacardi rum

300 mL lychee puree (blend a can of strained lychees. Strain the puree to remove gritty bits)

300mL ruby grapefruit juice

Dash of Campari

Mint Leaves, to serve

Mix all ingredients in a jug. Serve in a short glass with plenty of crushed ice. Garnish with mint leaves.