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As summer approaches, I find myself drawn to the allure of the water’s edge, where laughter mingles with the gentle lap of waves. It was on one such sun-drenched afternoon that I discovered the enchanting Lake Days Shot, a cocktail that captures the essence of those blissful moments. With its striking green and blue layers, this irresistible drink combines the sweet, juicy notes of melon with the zesty brightness of orange—a perfect reflection of summer’s vibrant spirit.

What makes this shot even more special is its versatility. Whether you prefer a spirited blend to get the party started or a refreshing non-alcoholic version to satisfy everyone’s palate, this recipe caters to all. Picture yourself serving these stunning shots at your next lakeside gathering, bringing smiles and cool refreshment to your friends and family. Let’s dive into this quick and easy two-ingredient cocktail that’s bound to become your new summer favorite!

Why is the Lake Days Shot a must-try?

Simplicity: This recipe is a breeze with only two ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced mixologists.
Versatility: Enjoy as a delicious cocktail or opt for the non-alcoholic version that’s just as delightful, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun!
Vibrant Presentation: The stunning green and blue layers are not only eye-catching but also create an unforgettable visual for your summer gatherings.
Refreshing Flavor: The delightful mix of melon and orange offers a sweet and tangy taste that perfectly captures the essence of summer.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for sunny days by the lake, this drink guarantees smiles and compliments from your guests, creating lasting memories.

Lake Days Shot Ingredients

For the Cocktail

Midori – A sweet melon liqueur providing fruity flavor and vibrant color; substitute with melon juice for a non-alcoholic Lake Days Shot.
Blue Curacao – A sweet orange-flavored liqueur that adds a hint of bitterness and a striking blue hue; replace it with orange juice and a splash of bitters or blueberry juice for a non-alcoholic option.

For Garnishing

Maraschino Cherries – Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color; a playful decoration for your layered shots.
Fish Gummies – Fun and whimsical, these can be placed on the rim for a playful summer vibe.
Edible Sparkles – Enhance the visual appeal; sprinkle them on top for a sparkling finish!

How to Make Lake Days Shot

Prepare Ingredients: Gather your Midori and Blue Curacao (or their non-alcoholic substitutes) to get started on your refreshing Lake Days Shot! Ensure everything is cold for the best flavor.
Layering: Pour 2 oz of Midori into a shot glass carefully. Then, slowly add 2 oz of Blue Curacao on top to create that gorgeous layered effect, making sure they don’t mix just yet.
Garnishing: Optional: Decorate with maraschino cherries, fish gummies, or edible sparkles to add a playful twist to your shot. They’ll look as good as they taste!
Non-Alcoholic Version: For a fun alternative, mix 2 oz of melon juice and 2 oz of orange juice with a splash of bitters to achieve a layered look that’s equally vibrant and delicious.

Optional: You can also use honeydew melon puree instead of Midori for the non-alcoholic version.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Lake Days Shot Variations

Feel free to play around with flavors and ingredients to create your perfect Lake Days Shot!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of melon juice for a tropical twist that adds creaminess to your non-alcoholic version.
A hint of creaminess can elevate the shot, while coconut offers a refreshing base.
Fruit-Packed: Replace Blue Curacao with a blend of blueberry and blackberry juice for a berrylicious twist.
This adds a burst of flavor and keeps the stunning blue hue, making it not just tasty, but also visually impressive!
Herbal Hint: Add a few fresh mint leaves when mixing the non-alcoholic version for a refreshing herbal note.
This additional layer brings a surprising freshness that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Spicy Kick: Introduce a dash of cayenne pepper or a slice of jalapeño in the shot for a surprising kick.
The heat balances the sweetness, giving your guests a memorable and exciting experience.
Sparkling Surprise: Incorporate a splash of soda water into the non-alcoholic mix for a bubbly finish.
The effervescence gives the shot a lively vibrancy, making it even more celebratory!
Flavored Syrups: Experiment with flavored syrups like raspberry or passion fruit for an intriguing fruity alternative.
These options add surprising flavors that can complement or transform the original taste.
Freeze the Fun: Create icy versions by freezing the layers in ice cube trays for a refreshing slushy effect.
These frosty treats are perfect for cooling down on a hot summer day while looking stunning!
Layered Smoothie: Blend the ingredients into a smoothie and serve it in a tall glass for a brunch-friendly twist.
It keeps the fun vibes while offering a healthier option everyone can enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Lake Days Shots are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while still impressing their guests! You can prepare the layering components up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the Midori and Blue Curacao in their respective containers and refrigerate them separately to maintain their vibrant colors and flavors. When you’re ready to serve, just layer the ingredients in shot glasses as described, and add your garnishes, ensuring a fresh and fun presentation. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy less chaos and a more relaxed time with family and friends, making your lakeside gathering all the more enjoyable!

Storage Tips for Lake Days Shot

Best Served Fresh: Enjoy your Lake Days Shot fresh for the best flavor and presentation; this cocktail is truly at its best when made just before serving.

Fridge: If you have leftover components, store Midori and Blue Curacao in the fridge, tightly sealed, for up to 6 months to maintain their vibrant flavors.

Pre-Mixing Components: If preparing ahead, store each liquid separately in the fridge until you’re ready to layer; this will help keep the textures and flavors intact.

Non-Alcoholic Version: For the non-alcoholic alternative, mix melon juice and orange juice together in the fridge and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.

What to Serve with Lake Days Shot?

Imagine sipping on vibrant, layered shots while lounging by the lake, surrounded by laughter and sunshine—what could be better?

Chips and Guacamole: The creamy avocado and crunchy chips provide a delightful contrast to the sweet flavors of your shot, making every sip even more enjoyable.
Fruit Skewers: Refreshing and colorful, a mix of melon, pineapple, and berries complements the fruity notes in the Lake Days Shot, enhancing your summer experience.
Grilled Shrimp Tacos: These savory bites add a spicy twist that balances the sweetness of the drink, creating a mouthwatering coastal feast.
Pineapple Coconut Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert that echoes the tropical vibes of your cocktails, providing a sweet finish after fruity shots.
Cucumber Mint Spritzer: This cool and zesty drink keeps things refreshing, offering a non-alcoholic pairing that brings out the melon tones in the shot beautifully.
Mini Quiches: Savory and creamy, these little bites introduce a rich texture and flavor that pairs well with your vibrant shots, creating a well-rounded tasting experience.
Herbed Focaccia: The aromatic herbs in this bread provide a rustic touch, adding depth to your gathering, while its soft texture complements the drink’s refreshing nature.
Lemonade with a Twist: Bright and citrusy, this classic drink echoes the orange flavor in the Lake Days Shot, providing balance and elevating the refreshment factor.
Berry Tart: A sweet and tart dessert that mirrors the fresh fruit notes in your shots, leaving a delightful finish on the palate after all the fun.

Tips for the Best Lake Days Shot

Garnish Creativity: Elevate your presentation with unique garnishes like gummy fish or edible sparkles; make your Lake Days Shot as fun as it is tasty!
Layering Technique: Pour slowly and at a slight angle to create beautiful layers; a gentle touch helps keep the colors separate for that stunning visual effect.
Chill Your Ingredients: Use cold Midori and Blue Curacao for a refreshing shot that’s perfectly cooled for those hot summer days, avoiding warm and diluted flavors.
Mix Well for Non-Alcoholic: When preparing the non-alcoholic version, ensure the melon and orange juices are well mixed before layering to achieve a delightful flavor balance.
Stay Consistent: If you’re serving a crowd, measure your ingredients consistently for each shot; this keeps flavors harmonious across all your Lake Days Shots.

Lake Days Shot Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting Midori and Blue Curacao?
Absolutely! When choosing your Midori, look for a bottle that has a rich, vibrant green color and doesn’t have any sediment at the bottom. For Blue Curacao, you want a bright blue hue that indicates freshness. Check the expiration date on both bottles to ensure you’re getting the best flavors for your Lake Days Shot!

How long can I store leftover ingredients for this shot?
Very! Midori and Blue Curacao can be stored in the fridge for up to 6 months if tightly sealed. Just make sure the bottles are kept away from direct sunlight which can affect their quality. Once opened, keep an eye on their color and scent; if anything seems off, it’s best to toss them.

Can I freeze the ingredients for future use?
Certainly! However, I wouldn’t freeze the liqueurs because freezing can alter their flavors and textures. Instead, you can freeze melon juice in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to make your Lake Days Shot, just pop a few cubes into your glass, let them melt slightly, and then layer your other ingredients!

What if my layers don’t stay separate?
The more the merrier! If your layers mix, don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! To achieve that gorgeous layered look, pour each liquid slowly over the back of a spoon along the side of the glass. This method allows the liquids to sit on top of each other rather than mixing. And if you’re using the non-alcoholic version, ensure your juices are at different temperatures to help with separation!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! The standard ingredients in the Lake Days Shot are generally gluten-free, but always check the labels on your specific brands to be certain. For allergies, Midori contains allergens like fruit essences, so be mindful if anyone has sensitivities. For a non-alcoholic version, the fruit juices are usually safe, but verify for any fruit allergies beforehand.