This is my go-to beverage for summer parties. A John Daly is nothing more than an Arnold Palmer with vodka. What makes this version a bit different from others is the higher ratio of tea to lemonade. Omit the vodka in the recipe below for a non-alcoholic version of this refreshing drink.
Whether you are spending the day on a boat, sitting in your backyard or tearing it up at your neighborhood block party, this is a big crowd pleaser and easy to scale from 1 – 100 people.
Mise en place
NOTE: quantities of each ingredient will vary depending on how many people you are serving. One might define a “part” as a shot glass for an individual cocktail, or a “part” could be defined as a quart (4 cups) for a crowd. Simply replace “part” with any volume measurement.
- 1 part fresh squeezed or chilled lemonade (look in the refrigerated section, not the center shelves of the store)
- 1 part vodka
- 3 parts high quality unsweetened black tea
- juice from fresh lemon or sliced lemons (optional but really delicious addition)
Directions
- Mix everything together and chill over night if possible. If you can’t wait that long, no big deal.
- pour over ice
- sit back, relax and enjoy!
Tips
- Use quality ingredients. I prefer Trader Joe’s Tejava unsweetened black tea and a good quality, refrigerated lemonade . Other brands such as Simply Lemonade and Pure Leaf/Golden Peak/Honest teas are also good.
- When making for a crowd I like to buy gallons of water, drink the water and save the gallon jugs. I’ll mix it and pour it into the gallon jugs. They fit nicely in a cooler, are easy to pour from and you don’t have to worry about bringing the container home.
- Label your beverage! This is a very important step to insure the kiddos or anyone else wanting to avoid alcohol doesn’t think it is juice.
- On the above note, make a version without vodka for others to enjoy. It is a thoughtful and inclusive gesture as a host(ess)
