Aperol Lemon Drop

I go through these phases where giving something the designation of a signature meal, a signature dessert, and/or a signature cocktail makes for an even more fun reason to invite friends over for a gathering. While they change with the seasons, the underlying intent of having these 'signature' foods and beverages is my sincerest attempt at making everyone who walks through my front (or side) door feel special, feel loved. With all my heart I believe creating beautiful, delicious meals for others is the simplest, yet most powerful gesture of unconditional love. Food and beverages have been and will always be my love language. 

So when I discover and/or create a new dish and/or new cocktail, I get giddy with excitement over the anticipation of sharing them with my favorite people. Preferably in person, but virtually too! My level of giddiness over this refreshing Aperol Lemon Drop is almost undefinable. And as much as I love an Aperol Spritz and swoon over a Paper Plane, this Aperol Lemon Drop is going to give them both a run for their money. If I had to describe it, I would say it's part Cosmopolitan, part adult slightly tart lemonade, and part irresistible. Whether you call it an Aperol Lemon Drop or Aperol Cosmopolitan, you might easily want to immediately start calling it your summer signature cocktail.

Other than having some ice cold vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and Aperol, you will need some simple syrup. Make it the night before or early in the morning so it has time to chill. Homemade simple syrup is easy to make and so much better than any store bought bottled simple syrup (see notes below for directions).

In addition to how incredibly delicious it is, the Aperol Lemon Drop is one of those cocktails you can make in a big batch. Just quadruple the ingredients, pour into a pitcher, and keep chilled in the refrigerator. When your guests arrive, you are ready to hand them a glass filled with some ice of your 'signature' cocktail within minutes of their arrival! You might only need to ask if they like their 'lemon drops' sugared or unsugared. 

Cheers to getting your summer entertaining season off to a fabulous start!

Recipe

Aperol Lemon Drop

Makes 1 refreshing cocktail

Ingredients

2 ounces ice cold vodka

1 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice

1/2 ounce Aperol

1/2 ounce simple syrup

Slice of a lemon peel

Directions

1. In a cocktail shaker, add in the vodka, lemon juice, Aperol, simple syrup and 10-12 ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 18-20 seconds.

2. Strain and pour into a coupe or martini glass. Add in 5-6 ice cubes and a slice of lemon.

3. Sip, savor, and swoon.

Notes: (1) Make the simple syrup in advance as it needs time to cool and chill. To make simple syrup add in 1 cup of water and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Transfer to a heatproof jar (preferably one with a tight fitting lid). Cool to room temperature and then place in the refrigerator. The simple syrup will be good for 2-3 weeks. (2) You can rim the coupe or martini glass in sugar for those who like a sugared 'lemon drop' rim.