End of Summer Shots and Cocktails

Hattiesburg, MS

August, for most people, is a reminder that the summer season is almost over, although it’s still rather hot out. The kids are about to start school, even though that might look a bit different this year for some, and vacation is but a memory at this point. Why not send summer off with one of these tasty end-of-summer shots or cocktails.

Watermelon Tequila Jell-O Shots

Jell-O shots scream summertime. This recipe makes them extra festive for enjoying poolside. It also uses leftover lime shells to create a crafty, boozy delight. However, this drink does not have watermelon, so don’t be fooled by its appearance.

The Ingredients: You’ll need one (3-oz) package strawberry Jell-O mix, 1 cup of tequila, 1 cup of boiling water, 10-15 lime shells depending on the size of the limes, and either black sesame seeds or black salt.

The Directions: You’ll start by bringing your Jell-O to a boil. Make sure it is dissolved then add in your tequila. Stir for even distribution. Slice your limes lengthwise in half—this way, when they’re hollowed, they look like watermelon halves. Using a sharp knife like a paring knife, cut around the flesh. Carve just to the white part of the skin, then pry or scoop out the fruit pulp. Pour your tequila Jell-O concoction into the lime shells and refrigerate until they’ve set (this should take roughly 4 hours). Place black sesame seeds or black salt on top of them, so they mimic watermelon seeds. Black salt can be hard to find; that’s why we alternatively use sesame seeds, which also have a neutral flavor that shouldn’t be noticeable if one is chewed up.

Bloody Mary Shots

Bloody Mary’s are the epitome of Southern brunch, and a staple in any late morning to early afternoon drinking party. These shooters are flavorful and less likely to require that your friends will need an Uber to get home because of the small portion size.

The Ingredients: Gather 3/4 cup Bloody Mary mix, 3/4 cup Hot Pepper Vodka, 6 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 3/4 teaspoon celery salt, 3/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 3/4 teaspoon Tabasco (or other hot sauce) and 1 tablespoon of applewood smoked salt.

The Directions: Gather your shot glasses and smear fresh lime juice on the rims. Dip a small section of the shot glass into the applewood smoked bacon salt. In a cocktail shaker or large measuring cup, pour all of your ingredients. If you prefer your Bloody Mary’s cold, then shake with a couple of ice cubes. Stir to combine, pour the mixture into your shot glasses, and voila! Now you can enjoy it.

Cucumber Basil IPA Cooler

Mixing beer and liquor may sound like an odd combonation, but trust us on this one. This cucumber and basil infused beverage will help you stay cool until the thermostat drops.

The Ingredients: For this cocktail, you’ll need 1½ ounces of vodka, two chopped basil leaves, six slices of cucumbers, three ounces of sparkling lemonade, and 3-6 ounces of your IPA beer of choice (preferably with citrus notes).

The Directions: Fill a shaker about halfway with ice. Combine your vodka, basil, cucumber, and sparkling lemonade into your pre-filled shaker. Mix well, and then pour the contents into glasses. Add your chosen IPA to each glass, stir gently, and then serve immediately for a refreshing beer cocktail.

Your Adult Beverage Source in Hattiesburg

Do you need to restock before summer ends? Maybe you need to get the ingredients for a new drink like one of the ones listed above? Lincoln Road Package Store has a substantial selection of spirits to help get you ready for game day. We carry more than 260 whiskeys, 100 liquors and spirits, 800 wines, and 20 private barrel whiskey selections. Consider us a one-stop-shop for all of your adult beverage needs. You can call ahead at (601) 268-3677 to make sure we have everything in stock that you’re looking for, or send an email to jamiefarris@gmail.com.