A Pink Flamingo cocktail is like a sip of summer—bright, refreshing, and just the right amount of sweet. With a beautiful pink hue and a perfect balance of fruity flavors, it’s a drink that feels festive no matter the occasion. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a party, or just craving something fun, this cocktail is a must-try. I’ve made this drink countless times, and along the way, I’ve picked up a few tricks to make it even better. Let’s dive in!
Pink Flamingo
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 1.5 oz (45ml) vodka
- 3 oz (90ml) cranberry juice
- 0.5 oz (15ml) grenadine
- A splash of club soda
- Ice (enough to fill your glass)
- Fresh lime wedge (for garnish)
Glass choice: A highball glass works best because it shows off the drink’s color and leaves room for plenty of ice. If you want a fancier presentation, a martini glass is a great alternative.
How to Make a Pink Flamingo
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, cranberry juice, and grenadine.
- Shake well for about 10 seconds to chill everything.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with a splash of club soda for a little fizz.
- Garnish with a fresh lime wedge.
Tip: For a gorgeous layered effect, pour the grenadine slowly over the back of a spoon—it’ll sink and create a beautiful gradient.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- If you’re making this for a party, mix the vodka, cranberry juice, and grenadine in a large pitcher ahead of time and keep it chilled. Just add ice and club soda right before serving to keep it fresh and bubbly.
- Leftovers? Store the mix (without ice or soda) in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Shake or stir before serving.
Variations & Customizations
Want to mix things up? Here are a few fun twists:
Frozen Pink Flamingo: Blend everything with a cup of crushed ice for a slushy version. Perfect for extra-hot days!
Spicy Pink Flamingo: Muddle a thin slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. The subtle heat pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness.
Blue Flamingo: Swap the grenadine for blue curaçao to turn this into a bright blue tropical drink.
Non-Alcoholic Pink Flamingo: Replace the vodka with lemon-lime soda or extra club soda for a delicious mocktail.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with light, fresh dishes. Here are some of my favorites:
- Grilled Chicken Skewers – The smoky, slightly charred flavor of grilled chicken balances the drink’s fruity sweetness.
- Crisp Summer Salad – A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette keeps things refreshing.
- Seafood Ceviche – The lime in both the drink and the dish makes for a bright, zesty combination.
Bartender Tips
- Use fresh lime for garnish—it makes a difference in flavor and presentation.
- Chill your glass beforehand to keep your drink cold longer.
- Want less sweetness? Reduce the grenadine or use light cranberry juice instead.
FAQs
Can I make a big batch for a party?
Yes! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of guests and mix everything in a pitcher. Add soda right before serving.
What if I don’t have grenadine?
You can use raspberry syrup or even a splash of pomegranate juice as a substitute.
How do I get that perfect layered look?
Slowly pour the grenadine over the back of a spoon—it’ll settle at the bottom for a beautiful gradient.
Is this drink only for summer?
Not at all! While it’s a summer favorite, the bright color and fruity taste make it a fun choice for winter parties too.
This has been my go-to cocktail for warm nights, and I hope you enjoy it just as much. Whether you’re making the classic version or trying a fun twist, the Pink Flamingo is sure to be a hit. Cheers! 🍹
