The Cloister Cocktail

Chartreuse and citrus sparkle in this little-known charmer

We’re transitioning to autumn in our part of the world. And looking for a predinner drink, of course.

Hence, The Cloister Cocktail – a gin-based palate cleanser with bright citrus and sharp Chartreuse.

Never heard of it? Most people haven’t. But we need to change that.

Because a drink this good shouldn’t be, well, cloistered away.

Chilled Plum Soup

Aromatic spices and (optional) chipotle energize this seasonal pleaser

Plums are overflowing our supermarket displays this time of year. They’re just begging us to take them away from their overcrowded bins. So how can we leave plums off the dinner menu?

This savory soup gives the succulent stone fruit a starring role. It’s a terrific starter for a festive meal.

So cheer up your summer-weary guests with a cool spooner. And give some plums a home.

The Navy Grog Cocktail

Citrus and three types of rum make this a Tiki classic

Tiki drinks tend to be rum heavy. Especially this one.

The Navy Grog combines three different rums with two types of citrus. The result is magic.

Rum thing, that.

Green Goddess Dip, Dressing, and Sauce

A classic favorite with bright, tangy, herbal flavor

You’re probably thinking salad dressing. And why not? Green Goddess gets greens.

But this recipe also works well as a dip or sauce. Maybe even better.

Fresh herbs are the key to Green Goddess. They provide the green hue – not to mention the terrific flavor. That means summer (when herbs are at their peak) is the perfect time to make it.

So serve up some Green Goddess. Then graciously accept adoration from your guests.

The Hemingway Daiquiri Cocktail

Born in Cuba, refreshingly citrus

Ernest Hemingway liked to drink. Often. In quantity. And long into the night.

He inspired some drinks, too. Including this one, most likely. It features grapefruit juice – one of his favored cocktail mixers.

So Hemingway loved this drink. We predict you will too. But watch that quantity thing.