Fortunately (or unfortunately for some), the liquor stores have remained open throughout this entire pandemic. "Essential business" really has a ring to it, huh? While you're bored at home, missing nights at the bar with friends, you may have been neglecting the ingredients you have to make delicious drinks all by yourself. (A Zoom call with your friends would be a great time to do this, by the way.)
1. Screwdriver
This one may give you flashbacks to that one time you didn't have a mixer. Of course, it's the classic mixture of vodka and orange juice. Most people have orange juice in their fridge and a bit of vodka in their liquor cabinet, so this may be the easiest one to come by. Add some grenadine if you want to spice it up a bit!
2. Mimosa
This one is similar to a screwdriver, but a little more classy. It's a mixture of orange juice and champagne. Mimosas are a staple beverage when it comes to brunch, so many of us consider them to be "special occasion" drinks. However, if you have some extra champagne lying around from your graduation party, why not mix it with some OJ?
3. Rum and Coke
My personal favorite drink is the classic rum and Coke. No fancy names, no hidden ingredients: it's just rum and Coke. The amount of rum flavor in your drink can be varied with how much Coke you put in, and the mixture of flavors is complimentary. Rum and Coke is my go-to drink for going out, and it never gets old. This is a great drink to have while outside during the golden hour and getting your daily dose of vitamin D.
4. Margarita
Margaritas from scratch sound complicated. Like, really complicated. Lucky for you, margarita mix is pre-made and only requires tequila! You can buy margarita mix at your local grocery store, and as you'll soon find out, there are many different flavors to choose from besides just "plain margarita". Personally, I recommend a strawberry or mango margarita. These drinks can also be enjoyed frozen or on the rocks (with plain ice).
5. Vodka Tonic
This is my grandma's favorite drink. Vodka and tonic water mix together to create a unique, slightly spiced taste that will make vodka more tolerable for you. Of course, you can always add some simple syrup into the mix if you want to sweeten it up a bit. Vodka tonics are not to everyone's taste, but don't knock it till you try it!
