Summer is in full (humid) bloom here in NYC and it has me jonesing for cookouts and long lazy days at the beach. Trips to the farmer’s market have yielded heaps of fat asparagus, fresh pea shoot tendrils, bright green sugar snap peas and those ubiquitous long stalks of rhubarb. Recently I wondered if my favorite pie combination could be the fixins for a refreshing summer cocktail and the short answer is yes indeed. The long answer is actually very long. Cut up some strawberries, cut up some rhubarb. Add vodka, let sit for a week and then drink. All the fresh summer taste of a strawberry rhubarb pie without ever turning on the oven!

Strawberry Rhubarb Vodka via Brita Olsen's Flickr

Here are the exact measurements for those wanting to try this simple to prepare drink at home:

• 6 stalks of rhubarb, washed and cut into 2 inch pieces
• 8 oz strawberries, washed and quartered
• 1 liter vodka (I used Tito’s)

Combine all ingredients in a mason jar, let sit in a cool place or refrigerator for 1 week, turning periodically. Strain out fruit and discard. Serve over ice topped with equal parts lime seltzer. Garnish with a fresh strawberry and enjoy!