Summer is finally here and it’s time to dust off those grills and break out the patio furniture. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or attending one, nothing says summer like a refreshing drink in hand.
But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect drink to complement your cookout spread.
Thankfully, we’ve got you covered. We’ve scoured the internet and gathered the best drink recipes that pair perfectly with your favorite cookout dishes.
From sweet to savory, these drinks are sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
But what makes a good cookout drink? It’s all about balance. You want a drink that’s refreshing enough to combat the summer heat, but not so sweet that it overpowers the flavors of your food.
You also want a drink that’s easy to make in large batches, so you can spend more time mingling with your guests and less time playing bartender.
So, whether you’re grilling up burgers, hot dogs, or a vegetarian spread, we’ve got the perfect drink to complement your cookout.
Get ready to impress your guests with these delicious and refreshing drink recipes.
1. Pink Flamingo Cocktail
The Pink Flamingo Cocktail is a fruity and refreshing drink that's perfect for any cookout or summer party. Made with vodka, pineapple juice, lime juice, and grenadine, this cocktail has a bright pink color that's sure to catch everyone's eye.
It's a simple yet delicious cocktail that can be easily turned into a party punch for larger gatherings. The addition of club soda adds a fun bubbly element to the drink. If you're a fan of pink drinks, this one is a must-try. It's the perfect way to say goodbye to summer and hello to the fall season.
2. Prosecco Margaritas
Looking for a fun and delicious way to celebrate with friends and family this summer? Look no further than Prosecco Margaritas! This sparkling twist on a classic margarita is perfect for entertaining and celebrating, with its bubbly and refreshing taste.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, this big-batch recipe is easy to prepare ahead of time and serve to your guests. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or a pool party, Prosecco Margaritas are sure to be a hit with everyone. So why not add a little sparkle to your next cookout with this fun and festive cocktail?
3. Boozy Watermelon Mint Lemonade
Looking for a refreshing and delicious cocktail to serve at your next cookout? Look no further than the Boozy Watermelon Mint Lemonade. This cocktail is the perfect combination of fresh watermelon, cucumber, lemon juice, and mint, with a touch of rum for an added kick. The drink is easy to make and perfect for serving to a crowd.
The watermelon and cucumber make the drink incredibly refreshing, while the rum adds a nice touch of sweetness. The drink is perfect for hot summer days and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So why not give it a try at your next cookout and impress your guests with this delicious and refreshing cocktail?
4. Blueberry Gin Mojito
Looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to serve at your next cookout? Look no further than the Blueberry Gin Mojito! This twist on the classic Cuban cocktail swaps out rum for Empress Gin, a hand-crafted spirit from Victoria Distillers in British Columbia, Canada.
The addition of muddled blueberries and a touch of simple syrup give the drink a sweet and fruity flavor, while the mint and lemon add a refreshing kick. Plus, the natural indigo color from the butterfly pea blossoms in the gin make for a stunning presentation. Trust us, your guests will be impressed by this delicious and visually appealing cocktail.
5. Orange Crush Cocktail
The Orange Crush Cocktail is a refreshing and light drink that is perfect for beating the summer heat. Made with orange vodka, triple sec, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and lemon-lime soda, this cocktail is a less fancy version of the Mimosa.
It is said to have been invented by the Harborside restaurant and bar in Ocean City, Maryland, but many beach bars on the New Jersey beaches also claim that honor. This iconic drink of the summer season is high in sugar, so it should be sipped responsibly. If you're looking for a fun and easy cocktail to serve at your next cookout, the Orange Crush Cocktail is definitely worth a try.
6. Cara Cara Tequila Spritzer
The Cara Cara Tequila Spritzer is a light and refreshing cocktail made with el Jimador Tequila Silver, ginger beer, Cara Cara orange juice, and fresh lime juice. The use of Cara Cara oranges adds a unique twist to the drink with red berry overtones.
It's a guilt-free option that doesn't require any additional sugar or simple syrup. Give it a try at your next cookout and impress your guests with this delicious and refreshing cocktail!
7. Fresh Cherry Mojitos
The Fresh Cherry Mojitos cocktail is a perfect addition to any summer cookout. Made with a fresh cherry syrup, mint, limes, rum, and sparkling water, this cocktail is light and refreshing.
The cherry flavor is the star of the show in this drink, making it the perfect summer treat. The cherry syrup can be made ahead of time, making it easy to whip up a batch for guests. This cocktail is sure to impress and is a must-try for any cherry lover.
8. Raspberry Lemonade Rosé Prosecco Punch
Looking for a refreshing and bubbly cocktail to serve at your next cookout? Look no further than the Raspberry Lemonade Rosé Prosecco Punch! This cocktail combines the sweetness of raspberry lemonade with the light and effervescent taste of Prosecco. The addition of Limoncello adds a tangy twist to the drink, making it the perfect summer sipper.
Whether you're hosting a baby shower or a BBQ with friends, this easy cocktail is the perfect summer champagne punch for a crowd! Plus, it's super easy to make and can be served in either a traditional wine glass or a fancy champagne flute. So why not treat yourself and your guests to this delicious and refreshing cocktail at your next cookout?
9. Champagne Lemonade Poptail
Looking for a refreshing and unique cocktail to serve at your next cookout? Look no further than the Champagne Lemonade Poptail! This cocktail is a twist on the classic champagne lemonade, with the addition of a fruity ice pop garnish.
The combination of the sweet lemonade, bubbly champagne, and refreshing fruit bar make for a perfectly balanced and delicious drink that is sure to impress your guests. Plus, with no obscure ingredients or complicated steps, this cocktail is easy to make and perfect for a summer gathering. So why not try something new and serve up a batch of Champagne Lemonade Poptails at your next cookout?
10. The Perfect Cosmo
"The Perfect Cosmo" is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any celebration or party. It's a fruity mixed martini that is a delicate dance of tart cranberries, sour limes, and sweet citrus vodka. The combination of these flavors creates a perfect blend that is both delicious and refreshing.
This cocktail is easy to make and requires only four simple ingredients. The pink color of the cocktail is playful and adds a fun element to any gathering. It's a great cocktail to serve in a martini glass or another party glass. The Perfect Cosmo is a must-try for anyone who loves a good mixed drink.
11. Mojito Cocktail
The Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing and classic summer drink that is perfect for any cookout. Made with a combination of rum, mint, lime, and simple syrup, this cocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors. The muddled mint leaves give the drink a fresh and herbaceous taste, while the rum adds a subtle kick.
The addition of club soda gives the cocktail a light and bubbly texture, making it a perfect drink for hot summer days. If you're looking for a cocktail that will impress your guests and keep them cool, the Mojito Cocktail is definitely worth trying.
12. Cosmopolitan Cocktail
The Cosmopolitan Cocktail is a classic drink that has been around since the 1930s. Made with vodka, orange liqueur, lime juice, and a splash of cranberry juice, this cocktail is perfect for ladies' night or any occasion that calls for a delicious and refreshing drink.
The high-quality ingredients used in this recipe, such as Grey Goose or Belvediere vodka and Cointreau orange liqueur, make it a sophisticated and high-end cocktail that is sure to impress your guests. The chilled martini glass with a lemon twist adds a touch of elegance to this already classy drink. If you're a fan of martinis, the Cosmopolitan is a must-try. It's a perfect addition to any cookout or summer gathering.
13. Red Wine Margarita
The Red Wine Margarita is a unique twist on the classic margarita that combines the bold flavors of red wine with the tangy sweetness of triple sec and tequila. This cocktail is perfect for those who love both wine and margaritas and want to try something new.
The recipe is simple and easy to make, making it a great addition to any cookout or gathering with friends. This cocktail is sure to impress your guests with its beautiful color and delicious taste. If you're looking for a fun and unique cocktail to serve at your next cookout, give the Red Wine Margarita a try!
14. Strawberry Lime Popsicle Spritzer
The Strawberry Lime Popsicle Spritzer is a refreshing and visually stunning mocktail that is perfect for any summer cookout. Made with only three ingredients, this cocktail is easy to prepare and is sure to impress your guests. The combination of strawberry and lime creates a lightly sweet and tangy flavor that is complemented by the addition of a popsicle, which adds an extra burst of flavor as it melts.
This cocktail is also a great option for those who are limiting their sugar intake as it uses unsweetened seltzer and can be made with low-sugar popsicles. Whether you're looking for a non-alcoholic option or want to add some vodka or spiked seltzer, the Strawberry Lime Popsicle Spritzer is a versatile and delicious choice.
15. Blackberry Lime Margaritas
The Blackberry Lime Margarita is a delicious and refreshing cocktail that is perfect for any summer cookout or gathering. Made with fresh blackberries, lime juice, tequila, and Cointreau, this cocktail is a perfect blend of sweet and tart flavors. The blackberry puree adds a beautiful color to the drink, making it a perfect addition to any summer party.
The cocktail is easy to make and can be customized to suit individual preferences by straining the puree to remove the seeds and pulp. Overall, the Blackberry Lime Margarita is a must-try cocktail for anyone looking for a refreshing and flavorful drink to enjoy during the summer months.
16. Gordon's Sicilian Lemon and Tonic
Looking for a refreshing and citrusy cocktail to serve at your next cookout? Look no further than the Gordon's Sicilian Lemon and Tonic.
This cocktail combines the classic taste of Gordon's Gin with the bright and zesty flavor of Sicilian lemons. The result is a perfectly balanced, lemony twist on the classic Gin and Tonic.
Whether you're a fan of the traditional Gin and Tonic or looking for something new and exciting to serve your guests, the Gordon's Sicilian Lemon and Tonic is sure to impress.
With its bright and refreshing flavor, this cocktail is the perfect addition to any summer gathering. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
17. Pineapple Daiquiri
The Pineapple Daiquiri is a tropical cocktail that is perfect for any summer cookout or barbecue. Made with fresh pineapple, lime juice, coconut cream, and coconut rum, this frozen drink is a refreshing treat that will transport you to a tropical island. The smooth and frosty texture of the drink is perfect for sipping poolside or enjoying with friends on a warm summer evening.
The cocktail is best served in a hurricane glass, but any larger glass will do. The Pineapple Daiquiri is a perfect match for any Tex-Mex dish, and its sweet and tangy flavor will complement any spicy dish. If you're looking for a summertime cocktail that will impress your guests, the Pineapple Daiquiri is the perfect choice.
18. Strawberry Lemonade Vodka Cocktail
The Strawberry Lemonade Vodka Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make mixed drink that combines the flavors of fresh strawberries, lemon sorbet, and vodka. This tart and not overly sweet cocktail is perfect for warm weather and is sure to be a hit at any party or BBQ.
The colored sugar and garnishes are optional, making it easy to customize for any occasion. Whether you're looking for a classic drink combination or something more festive, this cocktail is a great choice. So, if you want to impress your guests with a delicious and pretty cocktail, give the Strawberry Lemonade Vodka Cocktail a try!
19. AMF Cocktail
If you're looking for a fun and easy-to-make cocktail to serve at your next cookout, the AMF Cocktail is definitely worth considering. This light and refreshing drink is a twist on the classic Long Island Iced Tea, featuring lemon-lime soda and blue curaçao for a pop of color.
While some recipes call for sour mix, this version keeps things simple with a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice. The AMF Cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy sweet and sour flavors, and it's easy to batch for a group. Give it a try and see why it's a crowd-pleaser at summer gatherings.
20. Watermelon Margarita
The Watermelon Margarita is a refreshing and simple cocktail that is perfect for any summertime gathering or cookout. Made with just three ingredients – watermelon, lime juice, and tequila – this cocktail is naturally sweet and does not require any added sugars.
The watermelon is blended and strained to create a smooth and juicy base for the cocktail, which is then mixed with lime juice and tequila for a boozy kick. The cocktail can be served on the rocks or blended for a frozen version, making it a versatile option for any occasion. With its sweet and summery flavors, the Watermelon Margarita is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any cookout or party.
21. Watermelon Cocktail Punch
The Watermelon Cocktail Punch is a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that's perfect for any summer cookout. Made with tequila and fresh watermelon juice, this sweet and fruity cocktail is sure to impress your guests. The versatility of watermelon makes this cocktail a great choice for any occasion, whether you're looking for a sweet treat or a refreshing drink to cool down on a hot day.
With its high water content, watermelon is also a healthy choice that will help keep you hydrated. If you're looking for a fun and delicious cocktail to serve at your next cookout, the Watermelon Cocktail Punch is definitely worth trying.
22. London Mule
The London Mule is a refreshing twist on the classic Moscow Mule, using London dry gin instead of vodka. The herbal and floral undertones of the gin pair perfectly with the spicy kick of ginger beer and the tartness of freshly squeezed lime juice.
This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you're sipping it on a hot summer night or enjoying it as a festive holiday drink. The London Mule is a simple yet sophisticated cocktail that will impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
23. Raspberry Mojito Cocktail
The Raspberry Mojito Cocktail is a refreshing and delicious twist on the classic mojito. This cocktail combines the traditional flavors of mint and lime with the sweetness of raspberries to create a perfectly balanced drink that is not too sweet or too strong. The raspberry syrup adds a lovely flavor and a splash of color to the cocktail without overwhelming it.
Muddling the mint really allows the flavors to come alive in the drink, and the smoothest rum is the best choice for this cocktail. This cocktail is perfect for a summer cookout or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a refreshing and unique drink.
24. Blackberry Mojito
The Blackberry Mojito is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the classic mint mojito. Made with fresh mint, juicy blackberries, and white rum, this cocktail is perfect for sipping on a warm summer day. The addition of soda water gives it a light and bubbly finish. The blackberries not only add a beautiful color to the drink but also provide a subtle sweetness that balances out the tartness of the lime juice.
This cocktail is easy to make in a pitcher, making it perfect for sharing with friends at your next cookout. Just be careful, as these cocktails pack a punch! If you're looking for a unique and delicious cocktail to impress your guests, the Blackberry Mojito is definitely worth a try.
25. Vodka Lemonade
Vodka Lemonade is a classic cocktail that is perfect for any cookout or outdoor gathering. This easy-to-make cocktail only requires two ingredients, making it a quick and simple option for any bartender. Whether you prefer homemade lemonade or a store-bought mix, this cocktail is a refreshing and delicious option that is sure to please any crowd.
It's a great alternative to beer or wine and is perfect for those who prefer a sweeter, fruitier option. So, if you're looking for a simple yet delicious cocktail to serve at your next cookout, give Vodka Lemonade a try!
26. Strawberry Lime Mojito
The Strawberry Lime Mojito is a refreshing and fruity mocktail that is perfect for summer parties. Made with fresh strawberries, mint, and lime, this drink is packed with flavor and topped off with Sprite for a fizzy element.
The balance of sweet and tart flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it's easy to adapt to your taste preferences. The recipe also includes tips for making it ahead of time or storing leftovers. If you're looking for a fun and delicious mocktail to serve at your next cookout, the Strawberry Lime Mojito is definitely worth a try.
