Transport yourself to the spa while you enjoy this Cucumber and Basil Martini. It’s light, refreshing and truly delicious!
This past weekend we made this Cucumber and Basil Martini. When Jim originally proposed this, I instantly turned my nose up at the idea. The thought of a vegetable in my drink? No thanks! Sweet, berry and/or fruit drinks are usually my go-to. However, I was pretty curious, so I finally caved. Glad I did, because this martini blew me away! It’s light, refreshing and delicious! I am happy to say, this one is a keeper!
This Cucumber and Basil Martini has only 5 ingredients: cucumber, basil, simple syrup, lime juice and vodka. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this beverage because it won’t disappoint.
10 Fun Facts about Cucumbers
- Cucumbers have the lowest calorie count
- Made up of 95% water
- In Massachusetts cucumber season is from June-August
- Throughout most of the United States, cucumber season runs from June-September
- Cucumbers can cure bad breath
- Great sunburn reliever
- Cats are petrified of cucumbers
- There can be a 20 degree difference between the inside of a cucumber and its outside, thus the phrase “cool as a cucumber”
- Helps to relieve eye puffiness
- Great source of vitamin B
What is Vodka?
Vodka is a clear, somewhat tasteless liquid. The name originates from the Russian word “voda” meaning water. Some suggest, the liquor dates back to the Middle Ages where it was produced from fermented potatoes and used as an effective remedy against cold weather. During the Russian Revolution, when Russians began migrating towards Northern Europe (Poland and France) it started to gain worldwide attention and since World War II it has been produced around the world.
Vodka is largely found in mixed drinks due to to the fact that its colorless and has a neutral flavor. It’s primarily made from grains, like rye, rice and wheat and vegetable like corn and potatoes. However, more recently distilleries have began experimenting with fruits like grapes, apples, strawberries, blueberries, etc. to produce flavored spirits. Although there are no set regulations, all forms of vodka are distilled at least three times. Typically, the more it’s distilled, the smoother and cleaner the vodka is. Most vodkas are around 30-40% alcohol by volume (ABV). However, European vodka averages about 80% ABV and the American brand Everclear is 96% ABV. Watch out! That one definitely packs a punch!
What is the best vodka?
How do you choose what vodka is best? According to Charles Joy, a spirits tasting judge, most people want a vodka that is neutral in flavor, but doesn’t lack character. When judging vodka, he looks for the quality of the distillate and when swallowed it should lack an aggressive burn. He also looks for hints of aroma from what it has been distilled from, whether it is grapes, potatoes or grains. In addition, he looks for a creamy, clean and lastly, mouthwatering finish.
There’s a lot of vodkas out there ranging from big, bold, spicy to smooth and sweet. However, depending on what finish you like there’s a vodka out there for everyone.
Top 10 Vodka’s According to Liquor.com
Best Overall: Hangar 1 Vodka ($17)
Best for Sipping: Absolut Elyx Vodka ($23)
Best Flavored: Square One Organic Cucumber Vodka ($9)
Best for Moscow Mules: Tito’s Handmade Vodka ($16) My personal favorite!
Best Potato Vodka: Woody Creek Distillers ($19)
Best for Martinis: Crystal Head Vodka ($30)
Best for Bloody Marys: Absolut Peppar ($13)
Best Polish: Belvedere Smogory Forest ($28)
Best Organic: Humboldt Organic ($10)
Best for Highballs: Broken Shed Vodka ($14)
Cucumber and Basil Martini-Ingredients
- 4 inches cucumber (skinned, seeded and chopped)
- 4 basil leaves
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz lime juice
- 4 oz vodka
- 1 cup ice
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker add cucumbers, basil and simple sugar.
- Muddle until all the juices are released.
- Add lime juice, vodka and ice.
- Shake vigorously until very cold.
- Strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with basil and a cucumber slice.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Cheers!
For other light and refreshing drinks try:
Cucumber and Basil Martini
Equipment
- Cocktail Shaker
- muddler
Ingredients
- 4 inches cucumber skinned, seeded and chopped
- 4 basil leaves
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz lime juice
- 4 oz vodka
- 1 cup ice
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker add cucumbers, basil and simple sugar.
- Muddle until all the juices are released.
- Add lime juice, vodka and ice.
- Shake vigorously until very cold.
- Strain into a martini glass.
- Garnish with basil and a cucumber slice.
- Serve and enjoy!
- Cheers!
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