Glassware: Highball Glass
Ingredients:
2 oz. Reyka Vodka
1 oz. Aperol
4 oz. Naked Juice Blue Machine
4-5 Frozen Strawberries
Ice and water*
Garnish: ½ orange Slice
Directions: Combine ingredients in a blender, and blend till desired consistency is reached. *Note: Balance the levels of ice and water to achieve wanted texture for shake. Garnish serve and enjoy.
Flavor Profile: The Naked Juice Blue Machine packs a lot of flavor, and while it’s primarily blueberry, it also has apple and banana mixed into it too. The strawberries are a classic pairing with the blueberries, as they have a touch more sweetness. The Aperol adds a touch of orange, and a touch of bitter, to balance the fruit forward profile and to add depth.
Outcome: The look of this drink is purple. It will be more burgundy depending on the level of strawberry added. Overall texture should be smooth and not chunky. The orange garnish adds brightness by adding contrasting colors, and a little acidic balance when taking a bite out of it.
Inspiration: When family is over, the days can get a little hectic. A fruit smoothie is one of the most refreshing ways to start a day. Here is a different type of smoothie. The vodka carries the flavor of the fruit and aids by combining all the different berry tones into one. Aperol is a lightly bittered aperitif, which means it helps with digestion, while at the same time pairs back residual sugar from the fruit.
Side Notes: With more ice, the drink becomes thicker. The more water, the thinner. If you want an extra thin drink, use a mesh strainer to take out any excess seeds from the fruit added.