Absolut Mandrin Vodka Punch for the Neighbors

I love my neighborhood. If you’ve visited me, you might think it’s because of the lush foliage and vibrant blooming bushes and trees that greet you as you turn into our neighborhood streets with branches that meet each other across the road. You might think it’s because we’re close to downtown and convenient to the interstates while all the time feeling like we’re far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. Or maybe because each of our homes was custom-designed by a different architect in the 1960s and looks like something out of Mad Men with features such as split-level layout, brick fireplaces, sunken living rooms, and rec rooms complete with wet bars. 

But no. If you are my neighbor, you know full well why I love it here. It’s because of the people! In the 15 years I’ve lived here with my family, we’ve gotten to know most of our neighbors. Many have become friends, some have become close friends, and a few are like family. Our neighborhood association (participation  and dues voluntary, no enforceable rules) exists mostly to foster the neighborhood social life. We have parties for holidays, for seasons, to meet new neighbors, to meet old neighbors, to discuss neighborhood business, and because we don’t feel like cooking dinner.

One of our favorite traditions is called “Saltshakers.” A volunteer organizer (this year: me) solicits participants then sorts them into groups of 6 or 8 or whatever, depending on how many people sign up. The couples and/or singles in each group then take turns hosting a monthly potluck dinner at each other’s houses. It’s a great way to meet new people and see each other’s homes – especially fun in our neighborhood where many of the houses are quirky and weird. 

My husband and I recently hosted one of these dinners at our house, and took the opportunity to use one of Dad’s bottles: Absolut Mandrin Vodka. I suppose flavored vodka is not really a liqueur, but it’s sweet and it’s alcohol, so close enough. This one is orange flavored. Is “mandrin” Swedish for “mandarin?” 

Mandrin Vodka Punch

Fill a highball glass with ice cubes. Add 2 parts Absolut Mandrin, 2 parts ginger ale, and 1 ½ parts pineapple juice. Garnish with a wedge of lemon and a wheel of lime.

This was delicious, light, and refreshing. Everyone loved it, even my husband. I loved welcoming the neighbors with punch. Very neighborly. 

As hosts, we (meaning Gerard) also provided the entrée (marinated, grilled chicken) and our guests brought salad, spinach quiche, green beans, and raspberry cheesecake with whipped cream. And everything was fantastic.

If you plan to host a Saltshakers dinner of your own, remember to set the date, time, and host for the next dinner before the night is over. That way, the fun never has to end.