It’s more than just alliteration; it’s a statement, a proclamation that Thursdays are when the weekend should really start. Kicking it off right is the key, and what better way than with a cocktail that not only takes the edge off, but tastes good too. A hard thing to disagree with, we know. Drink up, get down and go to sleep happy.

It's Grilling Week on Cooking Channel, so if you're planning to have friends over for some fired-up meat, plan to mix up a pitcher of cocktails that will keep guests happy  while keeping you free to tend to the food. For something pretty, purple and party-sized, these Blueberry Ginger Mojitos should do the trick.

The ginger simple syrup adds a sweet and spicy kick, with muddled blueberries and crushed mint leaves really bringing the full flavor to the drink. This stunning take on the classic mojito takes advantage of summer berries at their peak of freshness.

• 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup cold water

• 1 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 20 to 24 fresh mint leaves
• 4 ounces ginger simple syrup
• 4 ounces vodka
• 5 ounces club soda
• Ice cubes
• Blueberries, for garnish
• Mint leaves, for garnish

Peel and grate the ginger and add it, together with the sugar and cold water, to a saucepan. Bring it to the boil and stir until the sugar dissolves. Cover and let steep for 15 minutes. Strain and cool in the refrigerator when done.

Add the blueberries, lime wedges and fresh mint leaves to the glass (or pitcher). Muddle with a wooden spoon so the blueberries are broken and the mint and lime release their juices and flavor. If assembling pitchers you can cover them at this stage and leave in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

When ready to serve, add the simple syrup, vodka and top off with club soda. Give it a quick stir and then pour into glasses with ice cubes. Garnish with a handful of fresh blueberries and a sprig of mint.

The recipe outlined below is for 2 tall glasses, but you can use the ratio to make pitchers (depending on how big your pitcher is double or quadruple the recipe).

Combine the blueberries, mint leaves and lime wedges in the pitcher and muddle it in there with the back of a wooden spoon. When you are ready to serve add the vodka, ginger simple syrup and club soda. Stir and pour into glasses with a couple of ice cubes. Garnish each glass with some fresh blueberries and a sprig of fresh mint.

Still thirsty? Check out Cooking Channel’s best summer drinks and cocktails.