We all love a good glass of Pimm’s on a hot summer’s day. Refreshing and dangerously easy to gulp down, it is, as its many fans the world over know, perfect when loaded up with fruit and sprigs of mint and topped with lemonade. And, whilst it can’t quite lay claim to the health benefits it once purported to have (in the 1800s it was billed as a digestive aid, chiefly when paired with the oysters its inventor sold in his bar), we like to think that the fresh fruit does, at least, give us a small dose of vitamin C as well as a little fibre – even if it’s soaked with the gin-based spirit.

If, however, you fancy switching up your summer tipple and diverging from the classic recipe, why not try these equally cooling and delicious ways with Pimm’s? They’re bound to be a talking point if nothing else at your next bash, and we think they’re rather lovely.

Pimm’s Martini


Delicious
Martini

A sophisticated twist on the Pimm’s, this is one that 007 himself would surely have approved of, all thanks to the addition of vermouth. Do be sure to serve in a proper martini glass and garnish with a raspberry and mint leaf. Make it.


Pimm’s Fizz


Delicious Magazine
Pimm’s Fizz

Take your usual Pimm’s recipe – lemonade, orange and mint – and simply add prosecco for a luxe take on this favourite summer drink. Make it.


Pink Lemonade Pimm’s Slushie


Delish Magazine
Slushie

The ingredients may be chiefly the same, but you can’t argue with the jolliness of making your refresher even more refreshing courtesy of some crushed ice. The ideal sip on a scorching day. Make it.


Tropical Pimm’s


Sainsbury’s
Tropical Pimms

If you harbour hopes that your Pimm’s will transcend the usual garden party vibe and instead whisk you off – in spirit at least – to the Caribbean, then this is the recipe to try at home. In place of lemonade, add pineapple juice as well as a sparkling pineapple and grapefruit juice drink. And in lieu of strawberries, cucumber and mint, submerge mango, lime and kiwi into your cocktail. And there you have it: the tropics in a single slurp. Make it.

By Nancy Alsop
July 2023