Summer’s here, which means more get-togethers, happy hours … and cocktails! We asked Danielle Garonce, a Studio (MDR) client -- and amazing chef -- for a healthy cocktail recipe. She found this one on one of her favorite food blogs. Cheers!

Blood orange margarita ice blocks with lime salt

Popsicles_0020Makes 10 You will need ice-block moulds and paddlepop sticks for this recipe. Be creative and make use different shaped moulds for some kitsch fun.

  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 cups orange-flavored sparkling water
  • 2 tablespoons Cointreau or other orange liqueur
  • ¼ cup tequila
  • 1/4 cup lime juice (plus wedges to serve)
  • Finely grated zest of 1 lime, plus ¼ cup
  • 1 tablespoon sea salt flakes

1. Combine sugar and ¼ cup water in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring for 2-3 minutes until sugar has dissolved. Increase heat to medium and simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly syrupy. Transfer the syrup to a large heatproof bowl and allow to cool.

2. Place the orange-flavored sparkling water in a large bowl and lightly whisk to remove the bubbles. Stir in the cooled sugar syrup and add the Cointreau, tequila, and lime juice. Transfer mixture to a jug.

3. Carefully pour mixture into popsicle molds, leaving some room at the top to allow for the pops to expand as they freeze. Freeze for 8 hours or overnight.

4. To serve, combine the lime zest and salt flakes in a small bowl. Run the molds under water to release the ice pops, then serve with the lime salt and lime wedges.