“What is a Pimm’s Cup?” you might ask. Well, I’m here to tell you. It is one of the most refreshing cocktails you’ll ever imbibe.
If you can get your hands on English-style fizzy lemonade, then this would be a much more authentic version. I have yet to find a completely authentic substitute in the US, so I have chosen to use Fresca, since it is not as sweet as Sprite or 7-Up or even Ginger-Ale (all suggested substitutions), but still has the citrus undertones we’re looking for.
I usually break this out in the spring and summer, when outdoor gatherings are a weekly (if not daily) occurrence and people are looking for something refreshing, but not too sweet. This drink is all that and more – a little sweet, a little savory, complex in its flavor profile, with enough of a kick to relax you without sending you over the edge (although they do go down pretty smoothly, so be careful not to overdo it…). I brought the fixin’s to a friends house last night for a little informal dinner party, and it was a big hit. If you’re looking for something a little different to serve this spring and summer, this is just the thing.
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- Ingredients: Pimm’s No. 1 Cup, Fresca, Sliced Lemon, Sliced Cucumber, Fresh Mint
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- Fill a glass with ice. Place two lemon slices, three cucumber slices and 3 chiffonaded mint leaves. Fill glass 1/3 full with Pimm’s.
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- Top with citrus soda of your choice. Stir to combine.
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- Enjoy!
{originally published Mar 2010}