Strawberry Blonde

by Jen

strawblonde1 There are a couple of variations on the Strawberry Blonde. The most common is basically an alcoholic Cherry Coke with cream. The other version is basically a strawberry champagne – which actually sounds more “strawberry blonde” than the recipe that uses cola, but it’s all good! The cola version is mildly sweet with a moderate alcohol kick, while the champagne version is considerably sweeter and much less strong.

The Strawberry Blonde with Cola

1 ounce Vodka
2 ounces cherry brandy
Fill with cola
Add a dash of cream

Mix the ingredients in a cocktail glass, stir gently and serve. Or you can shake it up with ice and strain into the glass, if you prefer. Garnish with a strawberry or sprig of mint.

The Strawberry Blonde with Champagne

2 ounces champagne
2 ounces Stoli Strasberi vodka
1 1/2 ounces pineapple juice
1/2 ounces strawberry daiquiri mix

Pour the ingredients into a shaker filled with ice, and shake gently to mix. Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a strawberry.

Smoky and salty

Whichever recipe you use, this is definitely a drink to be accompanied by salty and/or smoky snacks.

Smoked almonds make a perfect contrast to the light sweetness of this drink.
Smoked cheeses and meat cold cuts also go well – try smoked gouda, smoked mozarella, and anything involving applewood bacon.
Salty cheese are also great – try asiago, Roquefort, or feta.
If you want something more substantial, order a White Pizza from California Pizza Kitchen, or make your own. They use Mozzarella, Fontina, Ricotta, Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses, plus sauteed garlic and spinach… and smoked applewood bacon. That’s a wonderful combination of flavors to contrast with the Strawberry Blonde.

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