Ouzo served with mezedes and a cool glass of water is a classic way to enjoy the Greek national spirit. Mixing ouzo into cocktails adds the iconic flavor of anise to your drinks. The ouziotini is a variation on the martini while the ouzini was developed in Cyprus. Try the following refreshing recipes at your next party or backyard barbecue.

Ouzotini

• 1 ounce ouzo
• 1 ounce vodka
• 1 ounce peach schnapps
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 4-5 mint leaves, chopped
• Ice
• Sprigs of mint for garnish
• Sugar for rim of glass

Chill martini glasses in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, rub the squeezed out lime on the rim of the martini glass and dip in sugar. Set the glasses aside. Add the ouzo, vodka, Schnapps, lime juice, mint leaves and ice to a cocktail shaker. Shake and strain into a sugar-rimmed martini glass. Garnish with a sprig of mint and enjoy responsibly.

Ouzini

• 2 ounces ouzo
• 6 ounces orange juice
• 2-4 drops bitters
• Ice
• Orange slices for garnish

Shake the ouzo and orange juice together with ice, then pour into a glass over ice and add the bitters. Garnish with a slice of orange and enjoy responsibly.