Opinion: It’s not officially summer until someone breaks out the gin and tonics.

You can save this article by registering for free here. Or sign-in if you have an account.

Long weekend comin’ up.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

You’re gonna need limes. And don’t forget to put some tall glasses in the freezer.

You see, it’s not officially summer until someone breaks out the gin and tonics. A cold beer — and when I say cold, I mean arctic — makes a suitable alternative, but it’s got to be icy cold. Frosty glasses help. These drinks might be just ceremonial libations, but they’re required.  It’s got to be something you only have in the summertime. You might only have one G&T this year, so make it perfectly: thick wheels of lime, frosty glasses, and not the tonic left over from before the pandemic. If you’re off booze, consider a Rose’s Lime Cordial — this chartreuse sparkler pinch hits for G&T quite nicely.

Watermelons are the seasonal equivalent of the Halloween pumpkin, so you’re going to need one of those. Yes, they make a big mess, but it’ll probably be the only watermelon you lug home this year. There’s a whole science of reading watermelon rinds — do your homework so that you don’t accidentally bring home a big pink ball of styrofoam. Watermelon is best served chilled, so before you head to the grocery store, evacuate an entire shelf of the fridge to make space for this seasonal behemoth. Chunk it up for a feta, mint and watermelon salad or just slice it in wedges. Here’s a pro tip: Put it on a rimmed baking sheet before you start hacking at it.

A daily roundup of Opinion pieces from the Sun and beyond.

By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.

A........

© Vancouver Sun