Here’s how I’ve decided to prepare for my weekend: 1) Buy new pairs of shorts in hopes that the weather will just get the point already. 2) Take my cognac down from the top shelf to make something dreamy.

When I think of cognac, I think of the classic cocktail called the Sidecar. Believed to be invented around the end of the First World War and named for the motorcycle sidecars, this drink brings together cognac with orange-flavored Cointreau, lemon juice and a sweet sugared rim.

Giada brings another element into play in her Side Car Martini. Limoncello and lime juice offer another note of citrusy depth to this cocktail, and the sugared rim also gets a hint of lime zest. Get ready for the weekend and raise your glass to something sophisticated, tangy and slightly sweet.

Bottoms up, folks.

• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 lime, zested
• 1 lime wedge
• 10 ounces cognac (recommended: Hennessy)
• 4 ounces Triple Sec liqueur (recommended: Cointreau)
• 4 ounces sweet and sour mix
• 4 ounces Limoncello
• 2 ounces lime juice
• Ice

In a cocktail shaker mix the cognac, Triple Sec, sweet and sour mix, Limoncello, and lime juice over ice. Shake to chill. 

Pour the Side Car Martinis into the glasses and serve immediately.