New Jersey’s love affair with the farm-to-table movement includes not only the plate, but the cocktail shaker. Bartenders and mixologists are taking advantage of summer’s bounty by using fresh produce to create flavor-forward libations. Judi Rothenberg asked a few area eateries to share recipes for what they are pouring. Before you order another cosmo or appletini, review this cocktail list for unexpected combinations that might tempt you…
TABOR ROAD TAVERN
Jill Stabile, manager
“A perennial favorite with guests is the pineapple martini, a mixture of pineapple-infused vodka with a splash of pineapple juice. It’s light on the palate without being too sweet. We infuse the vodka ourselves and it’s easy to make at home.”
PINEAPPLE-INFUSED VODKA
One 750 ml bottle of Absolut Vodka
One pineapple, rind removed, cut into chunks
Place pineapple chunks in large glass jar with tight-fitting lid. Add vodka. Secure lid and refrigerate for three days. Strain and serve on the rocks or with a splash of pineapple juice in a chilled martini glass.
URSINO
Richard Spaulding, general manager
“The drinks at Ursino reflect what’s ripe and ready on our farm. When fruit and herbs are picked at their peak, you don’t need to add a lot of ingredients. The perfect cocktail is simple and not overthought. A great example of an uncomplicated yet flavorful drink is the strawberry Pimm’s Cup cocktail."
STRAWBERRY PIMM’S CUP
2 strawberries
1 ½ ounces Pimm’s No. 1 Cup
2 ounces ginger ale
2 ounces club soda
Muddle two strawberries in the bottom of a Collins glass. Fill the glass with ice, add Pimm’s, top with ginger ale and club soda.
THE BERNARDS INN
Diane M. Carr, general manager
“Our specialty drink list is changed seasonally and a standout for summer is the garden cucumber-mint cocktail. The mint and cucumber come directly from our chef’s garden."
GARDEN CUCUMBER-MINT
COCKTAIL
1 ounce citrus vodka
1 whole cucumber (do not peel), pureed
½ ounce Midori Melon Liqueur
½ ounce Domaine De Canton Ginger Liqueur
6 fresh mint leaves
Club soda
Crush the mint in the bottom of a martini shaker. Add ice, cucumber puree and the two liqueurs. Shake until cold; pour over ice into a Collins glass. Top off with club soda an enjoy!