Herb Infused Cocktail ~ Spicy Grapefruit Margarita

 

Over here at The Oaks bed and breakfast, we love a good margarita, and often the spicier the better.  This month we are bringing to your bar, a Spicy Grapefruit Margarita that is paired with a jalapeno and lemon basil. 

 

               We kicked up the spice a bit by zesting the jalapeno to create more kick with this summer special, and the garnish with the lemon basil just adds a little kick of citrus to an already delicious drink.  Another key component to this drink is to use only fresh squeezed juice.  Juice that grapefruit and lime directly into your shaker cup, when mixing this delightful drink. 

 

               Of course, you can dial up your sweetness and spice by adding more honey or jalapeno or less.  Make this drink your own and enjoy it with friends.  You can even make it a mocktail by removing the tequila and orange liquor.  I would splash in some nonalcoholic  orange bitters to grab that flavor and an additional amount of grapefruit juice to help fill the glass. 

 

Spicey Grapefruit Margarita

Serving size 2 drinks 

½ cup fresh squeezed grapefruit juice

3 TBLS fresh squeezed lime juice

2 TBLS agave or honey

3 oz white tequila

2 oz orange liquor

Salt to rim the glass

Lemon basil for garnish

 

Before you mix your drink prepare your glass.  Rub a lime wedge or grapefruit wedge around the glass and then salt with your favorite option.  Take all your liquid ingredients and pour into a shaker cup that has been filled with ice.  Vigorously shake your drink to mix together.  Then pour it over your salted, ice filled glass.  Garnish with grapefruit, lemon basil, lime or jalapeno slices.

 

               Make this drink your own and mix it up with different bases to find the one you like the best.  Increase the sweetness as you desire or decrease to make your drink more tart.  Mix in additional jalapeno for extra spice or remove it to eliminate all spice.  Either way, this drink will be a summer favorite for sure.

 

               As always please drink responsibly by having a designated driver.  We hope you will let us know if you make this cocktail and tell us which you like it the best.  Cheers!

Around Town ~ Farmer's Market

 

               Have you ever been to either of the famer’s markets that are close to Sulphur Springs?  We took a couple of Saturdays to check them out and let you know which one is our favorite.  Greenville and Winnsboro both have vibrant farmer’s markets where you can find unique items and handmade goodies for your whole family to enjoy. 

 

               We started out in Winnsboro and really enjoyed our visit there.  The market offers one long, covered area where vendors from the area are there to share their love of homemade and home-grown goodness with others.  Canned goods, homemade bread, meat and fresh grown vegetables dress the tables just waiting for someone to stop by and take them home.  Farm fresh eggs, and sourdough are offered, along with locally grown mushrooms that were full of flavor and deliciousness. 

 

               One of our new found favorite vendors is a fresh pasta maker.  All kinds of pasta are available for purchase.  Stuffed pasta, noodles, and even sauce are offered.  Such a wonderful selection and a must buy when shopping at the Winnsboro farmer’s market. 

 

               Other unique vendors, such as homemade hot sauce and unique jelly’s can be found at the farmer’s market.  A few vendors have made handmade jewelry and kitchen items like hot pads and oven mitts.  I love to see the fresh vegetable options that are grown with care and harvested for customers to enjoy at home.

 

               The Greenville farmer’s market is similar to Winnsboro but offered some different choices for fresh vegetables.  The mung beans and sprouts were a new choice and a wonderful option for guests who are looking for something different to add to meals.  Fresh melon, vegetables, and eggs are also offered in Greenville. One stand had an entire table of okra.  Such a great summer vegetable that is prolific.

 

               Greenville offered a little more in the handmade jewelry and t-shirt options so depending on if you are looking for those or vegetables, either farmer’s market can have something for everyone.  We prefer those markets that have more fresh vegetables than those that offer handmade jewelry and clothing. 

 

               Both markets had fresh homemade bread and a variety of fresh grown vegetables and fruit for guests to bring home.  Each vibe was a little different, Greenville was a little more tight and chaotic while Winnsboro seemed to be more open.  I’m sure that is all due to how the vendors set up at each  market. 

 

               Grab some friends and take an early morning adventure to either market, you will leave satisfied.  Farmer’s markets are a great way to support local farmers and feed your family fresh grown or homemade goodness.  With each market located in the downtown community, after your visit you can shop or dine at local restaurants.