Moscow Mule

As much fun as it is to run amok in the liquor store, when you’re planning a summer barbecue, the last thing you need to worry about is dashing back at the eleventh hour because you forgot the Crème de Noyaux for Aunt Mabel’s Pink Squirrels. And the main ingredients are good for you. The silica in cucumber keeps your skin healthy, thus helping you avoid pizza face; lime is packed with immune boosting vitamin C and limonin, which has been shown to fight colon cancer; and ginger can help you digest all that barbecue you’re shoveling in—plus, it can keep you from getting seasick while you’re floating in the pool. You can find ginger beer for the Moscow Mule in most liquor stores, or you can substitute ginger ale (although the flavor will be less intense). Refrigerate and use as needed.

MOSCOW MULE

2 cucumber slices
2 oz Ketel One vodka
2 oz ginger beer
Splash lime juice
2 oz club soda

Directions:
[1] Using a bar muddler or a wooden spoon, crush (muddle) the cucumber slices in a tall glass.

[2] Add vodka, ginger beer, lime, and soda.

[3] Serve with a cucumber garnish.

Nutrition facts for drink shown: 157 calories, 8 g carbs, 0 g fat

Laurent Tourondel is an executive chef and partner with BLT restaurants.