Lime & the Coconut

Love Pina Coladas, but avoid them because of the calorie count? Relax, it's a Lime & the Coconut (with apologies to Harry Nilsson).

A zero calorie pineapple coconut "Ice" beverage over Malibu Black. Lime. Done.

To go even lighter, use regular Malibu (about 17% alcohol) instead of Malibu Black (35% alcohol).

The great thing about highball type drinks is you can top off with the non-alcoholic mixer and no one will know you are being responsible.

Call me in the morning.

Rhubarb Cranberry Twist

The search for the perfect summer beverage is under way, even though the cottage is not yet open.

Today's offering: Seagram's Lime Twisted Gin (available everywhere and a bargain at $9.99), Dry Rhubarb Soda (available at Cravings Gourmet Popcorn in Old Town, Lansing), a generous splash of Ocean Spray Cranberry juice, and a lemon wedge.

Test results: A dry, lightly fruity yet sophisticated taste. If you like gin & tonic, you'll like this--even if you usually drink vodka and aren't a fan of gin. I'm sure it would be equally delightful with a lime wedge, and/or a splash of Rose's Lime Juice. Had the same drink sans cranberry juice yesterday, and judged it dee-lightful.

OMG what about a basil leaf!!!! That's gonna happen.