Add a tasty and colorful twist to any event with this quick and easy recipe for a refreshing melon-flavored cocktail!
It’s not easy being green. Kermit the Frog knew it, Ray Charles sang about it, and Bruce Banner grappled with it every time his anger transformed him into the Hulk. The color has been associated with everything from jealousy and seasickness to a desire to curb environmental pollution—all fairly challenging experiences.
What’s both easy and green? This Midori sour recipe. It involves only three ingredients and some common garnishes, but it brings a deliciously upscale sensibility to the multifaceted hue. Its main ingredient is Midori, a liqueur of Japanese origin whose name is literally Japanese for “green.” That moniker reflects both the striking emerald color and lush melon flavors the liqueur imparts to the drink.
This cocktail is the perfect choice for refreshing the vibe at any event. Each sip delivers vibrant fruity notes, pleasant hints of tartness, and light sweetness. It conjures the endless feeling of long, warm, sunny afternoons and the bright promise of freshly mown grass. Whether you’re toasting the first day of spring or the final days of the calendar year, this cocktail adds a tasty and colorful twist.
Ingredient spotlight: Midori
Midori is a vibrant, emerald-green, melon-flavored liqueur that originated in Japan and has become a staple in bars worldwide. Suntory first introduced it in 1964 as Hermes Melon Liqueur, using rare and high-quality Japanese muskmelons. After gaining attention at international bartending events in the early 1970s, Midori launched in the U.S. in 1978, making its debut at the iconic Studio 54 nightclub in New York City. Since then, its vivid hue and sweet, fruity taste have helped it maintain lasting popularity, especially in visually striking cocktails like this one.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover midori sour cocktails—sans soda and ice if possible—in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within 2-3 days for the freshest flavors. You can also freeze this drink for up to 2 weeks. When you’re ready to serve, thaw partially in the fridge or at room temp, pour over ice, and top with fresh lemon-lime soda to revive the cocktail’s balance and carbonation.
Serving suggestions
Serve Midori sours alongside fresh and savory dishes that complement the drink’s mild sweetness. An excellent appetizer choice with an equal balance of sweet and savory notes is Prosciutto And Melon. Lean into the summery vibes of melon liqueur with this vibrant Watermelon-Feta Salad (With Cajun Shrimp). Or give a nod to the drink’s Japanese lineage with a Teriyaki Chicken Stir-Fry.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces Midori
- 1 ounce sweet and sour mix
- 2 ounces lemon-lime soda such as Sprite or 7UP
- Maraschino cherries optional, for garnish
- Orange slices optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Add the Midori and sweet and sour mix.
- Shake well for about 15 seconds, until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks or highball glass that's half-filled with ice.
- Top with the lemon-lime soda and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries and an orange slice, if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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