This Cucumber Martini recipe is made with fresh cucumber, mint, lemon juice, vodka (or gin), and elderflower liqueur to create a cocktail that is as elegant as it is delicious.
This cucumber martini is accented with the lively flavors of fresh basil and lime, for a taste as refreshing as it is refined.
I sincerely believe the best-tasting food and drink is locally produced. Not only are locally sourced ingredients the freshest available, but I get a greater sense of emotional satisfaction knowing I am supporting my neighbors and building a stronger community in the process.
What is Cucumber Martini?
A traditional martini is a strong cocktail crafted with gin or vodka and a swirl of vermouth. However, many more flavorful variations have taken on the martini name over the years. Cocktails like my cucumber martini feature more flavorings than their original ancestor but still showcase the liquor as a major flavoring agent.
BEST VODKA FOR MARTINIS
Since the vodka is a primary component of the martini’s taste, it is important to use high-quality vodka. Using a lesser quality vodka will impart an unpleasant astringent burn into each sip, masking many of the other flavors present. Whereas a premium vodka will lend a smooth taste that highlights the flavors of the martini while also making the cocktail more pleasant to drink.
Why You’ll Enjoy This Cucumber Martini Recipe
- The flavors are bright and refreshing. This is a delightful spring or summer cocktail. I think it would be lovely served at a bridal or baby shower, fabulous for brunch, or the perfect complement to an afternoon tea.
- It’s unique. I don’t think cucumbers are often associated with cocktails. If you’re looking for something different, this is definitely worth considering.
- It’s easy to make. Shaking up a delicious martini doesn’t need to be difficult. You’ll be able to shake this up with little time and effort while still yielding a thoughtful and elegant cocktail.
Ingredients of Cucumber Martini
Ready to shake up this cucumber martini? Let’s do it. Here’s what you’ll need:
- cucumber – I prefer using English cucumbers, but any fresh cucumber will work.
- mint leaves – Mint works beautifully in this recipe, but if you’re not a fan or want something different, basil is lovely too.
- vodka or gin – Vodka was my choice for this recipe as I prefer it over gin. However, I tested this with gin and it’s wonderful too.
- elderflower liqueur – This is one of my favorite liqueurs. I discovered it about ten years ago and try to use it whenever I can. It has such a unique flavor; I find it to be floral, fruity, and a bit sweet. It definitely adds something special to this cucumber martini.
- fresh lemon juice – Freshly squeezed is the only way to go. Trust me.
- simple syrup – I like a little sweetness in this cocktail, so I included a splash of simple syrup. Don’t want it sweet? No problem. You can skip the simple syrup or opt for less.
How To Make
This martini recipe is pretty straightforward, but I’ll walk you through it regardless. For your convenience, I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card below.
- Add the chopped cucumber, mint leaves, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker. Crush the cucumbers and mint using a muddler.
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice. Top with vodka, elderflower liqueur, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously.
- Strain into a martini or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a thinly sliced cucumber on a cocktail pick.
Recipe Notes and Variations
Try vodka or gin. As I mentioned above, this recipe works with gin or vodka. Use what you like best. For vodka, I reach for Grey Goose or Titos. I prefer Hendricks for gin.
Serve it cold. Most martini-style cocktails are best served cold. Be sure to shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. If using a metal shaker the outside should be cold and frosty.
Use a muddler to make smashing the cucumbers easy. If you don’t have one, have no fear. The back of a wooden spoon will work too.
Looking to create a garnish as I did? You’ll love these silver cocktail picks. They are a common item with many of my cocktail garnishes. I used a mandoline to get a thin slice of cucumber. A vegetable peeler like this one should work too. Just shape the thinly sliced cucumber into a wave pattern and pierce the cocktail pick through the center of it.
How Strong is the Cucumber Martini?
Like all martinis, these pack a punch. With an 80-proof vodka and a typical dry vermouth, this one mixes up to about 28 percent ABV (56 proof). That means two martinis are stronger than a straight shot of vodka, so take it slow and think before mixing up the next one.
FAQS
Is a Vodka Martini Really a Martini?
The original martini recipe is made with gin, not vodka, and martini purists say a vodka “martini” is not a true martini. Vodka offers a smoother taste while gin brings botanical flavor and complexity to a martini. Whether you make this cocktail with gin or vodka and whether you call it a martini or not, it’s still delicious—and isn’t that the most important thing?
How to Cut and Muddle Cucumbers for a Martini
It’s easy to cut cucumbers for martinis. There’s no need to peel them—just cut them into slices using a sharp knife. For one cocktail, you’ll need three thick slices for muddling and a few thin slices for garnish.
The next step after slicing the cucumbers is muddling them, which releases the cucumber’s juices and flavor. To muddle the cucumber, use a muddler or a wooden spoon to press down and crush the cucumber slices, giving the muddler or spoon a half turn with each press downwards.
Recipe!
Cucumber Martini Recipe!
Equipment
- pan
- juicer
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add the chopped cucumber, mint leaves, and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker. Crush the cucumbers and mint using a muddler.
- Fill the cocktail shaker with ice. Top with vodka, elderflower liqueur, and simple syrup.
- Shake vigorously.
- Strain into a martini or coupe glass. Garnish with a thinly sliced cucumber on a cocktail pick.