Thirsty Thursday: Kick Off Summer with a Bourbon-Cherry Slushie

By: Kelsey Vala

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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.

For some, summer is all about lying out by the pool. For others, it’s about long and relaxing vacations at the beach. But for me, and I’m sure for many others, it’s about sun-dappled, fire-up-the-grill backyard cookouts. And one important component for any outdoor party is the frosty, iced drinks that will help keep you and your guests cool.

It’s time to break out the blender for a grown-up slushie spiked with smoky bourbon. Orange juice, lemonade, cherry juice and bourbon are blended with ice for a pretty, pink-hued beverage that’s just sweet enough.

Bottoms up, folks.

Bourbon-Cherry Slushie

Recipe courtesy Bobby Flay

Ingredients:

1 cup water
1 (12-ounce) can frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
1 (12-ounce) can frozen lemonade concentrate, thawed
1 cup cherry juice
2 cups bourbon
Ice cubes
Lemon and orange slices
Sprigs fresh mint

Directions:

Stir together the water, orange and lemon juice concentrate, cherry juice and bourbon in a large bowl or pitcher. Cover and place in the refrigerator until very cold, at least 2 hours. Place some of the mixture into a blender with ice and blend until slushie. Pour into large margarita glasses, garnish with lemon or orange slices and sprig of mint. Repeat with remaining mixture.

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