Some drinks need action. A glass of wine might look delightful and inviting in its simplicity, but what is a margarita or tropical cocktail without some drama? You can easily transform drinks from drab to fab by adding a few finishing touches in the form of garnishes. Let your imagination run free, but always make sure that you consider the drink at hand. Think about its taste and color. After all, you are trying to make life a little bit more interesting and adventurous. Refrain from going overboard, and keep it all in good taste. Try these out:
Decorative ice cubes: Who needs the standard, boring ice cube when you can add some creativity into the mix? Freeze cubes of the juice that is in your drink—this will help you avoid the watered down taste. You can even freeze flower petals or bits of fruit into the cubes. If you are serious about color coordination, you could use food coloring for the ice. For some flair, you can use ice trays that stray away from the usual square or rectangular shapes. Ice kebob trays are an appealing novelty.
Paper umbrellas: These miniatures really spruce up tropical drinks—think Mai Tai and Pina Colada. Available in different summery colors, they make your cocktails look ever so happening.
Flowers: You can use long or short-stemmed flowers to decorate your drinks. They will definitely look attractive. Just make sure that you use non-poisonous varieties!
Swizzle sticks: Available in a wide range of funky styles and colors, these sticks serve two purposes. Not only do they help you to stir the drink, but they also look appealing. Some swizzle sticks have rock candy tops—not bad for a treat (and third purpose).
Fruits or vegetables: Whether you add a slice to the rim of your glass, float it at the surface, add a stick to your drink, or make a kebob, fresh fruits or vegetables can make all the difference. When it comes to fruits, oranges, limes, strawberries, raspberries, lemons, grapes, pineapples, as well as star and kiwi fruits, lend themselves to certain cocktails. Don’t be afraid to dip strawberries or pineapples in chocolate for a surprise. Concerning veggies, cucumbers, celery sticks, cherry tomatoes, pearl onions, green olives, as well as herbs like basil, mint, and lemon balm work magic. Creativity is great, but some standards that have been set are just right. The Razzmopilitan needs its raspberries, the Appletini its apples, and Bloody Mary its celery stick and lime wedge.