At the end of a demanding work week, wind down with a Strawberry Long Island and a few co-workers. The refreshing beverage is fruity, sweet, easy to make (so it’s perfect for hosting happy hour), and a lot of fun—depending on how many you drink.
You need gin, tequila, triple sec, white rum, vodka, strawberry simple syrup, and citrus juice. Store-bought strawberry syrup is fine, but a homemade syrup is key if you want a natural, fresher strawberry flavor.
To make a homemade syrup, just toss a handful of halved strawberries into a saucepan with equal parts granulated sugar and water. Then, simmer for 20 minutes, strain, and chill before use. It’s that simple!
As for the Strawberry Long Island, here’s the recipe.
Strawberry Long Island Recipe
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Yields: 1
Ingredients
Ice cubes 1-ounce gin 1-ounce tequila 1-ounce triple sec 1-ounce white rum 1-ounce vodka 1-ounce strawberry simple syrup 1/2 ounce lemon juice 1/2 ounce lime juice Fresh strawberries and lime slices for garnish
Directions
Fill a cocktail shaker three-fourths of the way with ice.
Add gin, tequila, triple sec, white rum, vodka, strawberry simple syrup, lemon juice, and lime juice. Shake it up!
Fill a tall glass with ice. You can add a few strawberries as well.
Strain the Strawberry Long Island into the tall glass. Garnish as desired and enjoy.
Notes
If you have a large cocktail shaker, you can make multiple Strawberry Long Islands at once. Otherwise, shake them up 1-2 at a time.
Let’s Make it a Party
If you’re hosting a happy hour, you may as well go all in! Check out my best tips and fun supplies to make it one to remember.
Tips for the best happy hour
Hosting a happy hour is relatively simple, but there are a few things to remember:
- Most importantly, there must be food! I love a good charcuterie and cheese board, and they are so easy to make yourself. Other ideas include hummus and pita bread, chips and salsa, a veggie tray, or pizza bagel bites.
- Music matters. Create a play list that includes songs with an upbeat tempo to keep things light. Be sure to mix genres and styles to appeal to a broader group of people and to keep things interesting.
- As the host, look for ways to introduce people who may not know each other and connect with guests who are shy or who aren’t as comfortable in a group setting. Hosting a happy hour is such a great way to build your network and connect with people outside of the office.
Supplies that bring the fun
Your happy hour will be a success with drinks, food, and an inviting space. However, if you want to level up, these fun items will do the trick. Once you have decided on a signature drink, such as the Strawberry Long Island, get some matching plates and straws.
I recommend you make the small investment in some high quality wood cheese boards. They will come in handy over and over, and can make any gathering feel more classy.
Don’t forget a beautiful floral arrangement and candles to set a warm and inviting tone for the event. I love Olive & Cocoa’s unique flower arrangements.
Let’s Do This
Making an effort to connect with those in your life is more important now than ever. Hosting a happy hour is the perfect way to get to know your co-workers better and to show appreciation for those who help you get through the 9-5. Schedule it today!
