Shishito Yuzu-Ade Cocktail

As a new mixologist, the thought of developing new cocktails excited me. I wanted to use yuzu, a Japanese citrus fruit similar to lemons, and remodel the American Vodka Lemonade. I added muddled de-stemmed and de-seeded shishito peppers — mild green peppers that are semi-sweet and less spicy than jalapeños — but you can keep the seeds in for extra flavor and texture.

In this cocktail particularly, the shishitos' citrusy, peppery aroma and flavor make a perfect complement to the yuzu juice. You can get both ingredients on MarxFoods.com, or at any Asian market. This drink may be perfect for spring and summer, but if you're bundled up and cozy at home this winter, it's a fun, easy, and impressive drink to make and impress your friends.