Pimms
Every Canadian who’s spent a summer in London knows this drink — cool, colourful, and unmistakably British. Pimm’s Cup is the taste of long, lazy afternoons in city gardens, boat races on the Thames, and picnics in Hyde Park. It’s light, slightly herbal, and just a little posh — the kind of cocktail that feels right at home at a patio lunch or garden party back home, too.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
200 ml (¾ cup) Pimm’s No. 1
600 ml (2½ cups) chilled lemonade (or lemon-lime soda for a sweeter version)
Plenty of ice cubes
Garnishes (the more, the better)
½ cucumber, sliced lengthwise or in ribbons
1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
6–8 strawberries, halved
A few sprigs of fresh mint
Method
Build the base: Fill a large glass jug halfway with ice. Pour in Pimm’s and top with lemonade. Stir gently to combine.
Garnish generously: Add cucumber, citrus slices, strawberries, and mint. Give it a quick stir to mingle the flavours.
Serve: Pour into tall glasses, making sure each one gets a good mix of fruit and cucumber. Enjoy immediately while cold and fizzy.
Variations
Royal Pimm’s – Swap the lemonade for chilled prosecco or sparkling wine for a more celebratory twist.
Berry Garden – Add raspberries, blueberries, and a splash of elderflower cordial for a floral summer flavour.
Canadian Cooler – Replace half the lemonade with ginger ale, add a drizzle of maple syrup, and garnish with mint and frozen cranberries for a northern touch.