5 Ingredients or Fewer

Peel, slice, and freeze bananas in resealable plastic bags to use as a nutritious thickener for a variety of smoothies.

For anyone born in the Bluegrass State, the mint julep has a special significance: It's traditionally served on Kentucky Derby Day, the first Saturday in May. But it makes a great cocktail for any warm-weather afternoon. We've added a splash of club soda to make the drink a little lighter and more refreshing.

A coffee drink served at Jause, the Viennese take on afternoon tea.

The classic drink from old Cuba is said to have been concocted by expatriate American miners with time on their hands. These tart, lime-loaded daiquiris were created by recipe developer Jeanne Thiel Kelley's father, when he had time on his hands.

A simple drink for any kind of celebration.

This tastes like a thick, rich ice cream shake, but it's virtually fat-free.

(Coriander, Ginger, and Chili Lassi)Lassi is a refreshing yogurt drink that is very popular in its native India and Pakistan.

Keep the glasses and a pitcher of the vodka in the freezer (for at least six hours before the party) so that you can provide instant gratification to each arriving guest. A medicine dropper is a great vermouth dispenser.

Set up an assembly line to make six or so of these lovely cocktails at a time: Fill each glass with the liqueurs, then top with Champagne. Flutes are elegant but not essential.

If desired, the smoothie can be strained to remove the berry seeds, but the seeds contain lots of beneficial dietary fiber.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Served with a scoop of ice cream, this crisp, easy shortbread makes an elegant dessert. Try it dipped into melted chocolate or served with coffee and chocolates.

This slightly sweet, tangy sauce is wonderful with both fish and meat.