Orange Blossom Gin + Tonic
Spring is so close! Yesterday was the most beautiful day here in Seattle. The sun was shining, I actually woke up before my alarm clock because the little birds outside my window were chirping, and it was just an all-around great day. I met up with my friend Hailey and we spent the afternoon wandering around Ballard (a beautiful neighborhood of Seattle if you're unfamiliar) checking out shops and enjoying the sunshine and catching up. Then we headed over to check out the new Frankie & Jo's location and gosh is their ice cream good. It's all plant-based and their flavors are insane. I had California Cabin which is a smoked vanilla and pine ice cream with pieces of gluten-free black pepper and cardamom shortbread mixed throughout. Unusual but delicious!
In honor of (almost) Spring and beautiful sunny days ahead, I whipped up this cocktail to sip on. It's no secret I love a good gin cocktail and a G&T is a standby. I wanted to add a little freshness and a kiss of florals and I think the orange blossom water and meyer lemons do just that. It's fresh, aromatic, not too sweet and full of botanical notes without being overpowering. Orange blossom is really easy to find these days in most grocery stores, too if you've never tried it. Look for it by the rosewater in the international food aisle. It only costs a few dollars for a bottle and it's great in all kinds of things, from sweet to savory. I love this smoothie from Strawberry Orange Blossom Creamsicle Smoothie from Kale and Caramel and this citrus and avocado salad from Bon Appetit's Healthy-Ish. Do yourself a favor and pick up a bottle and make this cocktail, too!
Orange Blossom Gin + Tonic
serves 1
2 oz gin (I prefer Hendricks)
6 oz tonic water (preferably one without corn syrup)
1/2 t orange blossom water
1 T meyer lemon juice, freshly squeezed
meyer lemon slices, to garnish
In a glass filled with ice, add the gin, orange blossom water, and lemon juice. Top with tonic water and stir to combine. Garnish with meyer lemon slices and enjoy!
