Image Source: Chia Margarita

Summer is the perfect time to get creative in the kitchen with cool, refreshing eats and drinks. Add in some alcohol (provided you’re old enough) and the combination of liquor and sweet, fresh deliciousness will leave you feeling more than just satisfied.

But first, let’s address the elephant in the room. When it comes to finding balance in a healthy diet, alcohol is something of a contentious issue. On the one hand, studies concerning the health benefits of moderate alcohol consumption have often been favorable, and alcohol is positively associated with socializing and relaxation. On the other hand, it can lead to headaches, nausea, memory loss, and have disastrous long-terms effects on both physical and mental health for some people. Depending on the individual and the situation, alcohol’s effects range from good to bad, to downright dangerous. Read this article on Striking a Balance with Alcohol in a Healthy Diet for more information.

Here are 5 yummy recipes that you can try!

1. Margarita Ice Cream

2. Bloody Marias Made with Infused Tequila

Think of gazpacho: cool and refreshing, with spicy undertones, now put that idea into liquid form, minus the vegetables of course.  With infused tequila, this version gets an extra-tasty kick. Get the recipe HERE.

3. Drunken Cherry Coconut Ice Cream

A cocktail and a dessert all in one! What’s not to love?  This is not an “alternative” ice cream.  It just happens to be vegan and refined sugar free, however those picky eaters will never know unless you tell them. The healthy fat of the coconut milk gives this dairy free ice cream an amazingly creamy, and rich texture.  And the bit of alcohol left over from soaking the cherries keeps it a nice soft serve so it is always easy to scoop. Get the recipe HERE.

4. Carrot Orange Ginger Bourbon “Juice”

Drinking fresh vegetable juices load your body up with tons of vitamins while being easy on your digestive system.  Whether you are a juice newbie or veteran, this sweet and zesty combination will make you feel energized and refreshed! The sweetness of carrot juice blends very well with tangy fresh orange and lemon to form a great foundation. Lastly, ginger and bourbon round up the taste of this delicious cocktail with their bold flavors. Get the recipe HERE.

5. Vanilla Pear Cardamom Cocktail

This cocktail combines fresh pear with vanilla vodka and amaretto all tied together with the slightly floral flavor of cardamom.

6. Slow Cooker Kahlua Mint Hot Chocolate

A good cocktail can be the perfect end to a long day. This drink had homemade Kahlua and mint infused vodka which made this drink really taste special.

7. Vegan Bitter Cardamom Truffles

A treat for those who love bitter sweets and the strong flavor of cardamom!