Pitcher Drink

Freezing the watermelon and strawberries before mixing the drink eliminates the need for ice  — and allows the fruit flavors to retain their full intensity.

For anyone born in the Bluegrass State, the mint julep has a special significance: It's traditionally served on Kentucky Derby Day, the first Saturday in May. But it makes a great cocktail for any warm-weather afternoon. We've added a splash of club soda to make the drink a little lighter and more refreshing.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

Named for the four fruits that go into this recipe, the drink is a refreshing accompaniment to brunch at Sarabeth's restaurant in New York.

A lovely white sangria with great balance. Make it a day ahead to allow the flavors to intensify.

This one can also be a spritzer. Pour into a collins or highball glass and top with a little club soda.

We made an already simple recipe even easier by omitting brand names from the ingredient list. Almost any tequila will do — but after experimenting with several different beers, we found we prefer a lighter-style lager here. This recipe can be readily increased to serve a large crowd.

Crushed berries and cream over ice — of all the frappés, this is my favorite.

"While staying at the Rio hotel in Las Vegas, I went up to the VooDoo Café & Lounge," writes Adam Lantheaume of Billerica, Massachusetts. "I highly recommend the view; from 51 stories up, it is spectacular. I also recommend the apple Martini, which I've been trying to make at home for friends. Can you help?" If you prefer shaken Martinis, simply fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes and add half of the liquid ingredients. Shake, and strain into three Martini glasses; repeat with remaining ingredients. (The Rio uses DeKuyper brand Sour Apple Pucker for the schnapps.)