The 3-Ingredient Trader Joe’s Cocktail I’m Sipping All Summer Long

Fresh strawberries have arrived in my neck of the woods, and I simply cannot get enough. Farmers markets and the produce sections of grocery stores are piled high with bright red berries, and I am eating my weight in the juicy, sweet fruit.

It comes as no surprise, then, that the seasonal berries have made their way into my cocktails. And while I love a good strawberry daiquiri, I don’t always want to pull out a blender for the sake of happy hour. Sometimes I’m in the mood for something a bit more low-key.

Enter Trader Joe’s. The key to this cocktail is the grocery store’s Rhubarb & Strawberry Soda ($1.90). I’ve been eyeing the cute li’l cans for some time now and finally picked some up. I’m so glad I did. Made with actual rhubarb and strawberry juices, the soda is perfect for pairing with vodka or rum. 

Not too sweet, not too tart, and not too boozy, it’s a dynamite combo. Add a few fresh berries and you’ve got the perfect summer sipper.

How To Make My 3-Ingredient Trader Joe’s Summer Cocktail

To make two cocktails, you’ll need:

• 6 medium fresh strawberries
• 3 ounces vodka, such as Trader Joe’s Art of the Still Organic Vodka
• 1 (8-ounce) can Trader Joe’s Rhubarb & Strawberry Soda

Cap four of the strawberries, setting aside two whole strawberries for garnish. Add two capped strawberries to each glass. Using a muddler, the end of a wooden spoon, or a similar implement, mash the strawberries until broken up and juicy.

Add 1 1/2 ounces of vodka per glass. Fill the glass with ice, then top with the soda (4 ounces per glass). Give a quick stir, garnish each glass with a whole strawberry, and serve.

When to Serve This Cocktail

When I drink this cocktail, I have visions of lounging by a pool or beach, but that’s the great thing about it: with no body of water required, it’ll give you summer vibes no matter when you drink it. It’s fairly low ABV, making it a good choice for daytime gatherings or laid-back happy hours. 

I’ll be serving it at my next barbecue while the guests wait for the food to come out. It’s a nice brunch option, too, and the pink hue makes it very festive.

Easy Upgrades and Swaps

If you’re not into vodka, this drink would also be tasty with a mild white rum. For a more herbaceous experience, swap the vodka for a dry gin and consider garnishing the cocktail with a sprig of lavender or rosemary in addition to the strawberry.

I personally believe that 75 percent of cocktails are improved by a squeeze of fresh citrus, and this one is no exception. If you have a lemon or lime handy, add a squeeze for a little brightness. Or try a quarter ounce or so of Campari or Aperol, which adds a rich red hue and a touch of bitterness that plays nicely with the vodka.