The Lemon Drop Martini is a refreshing and classic cocktail that’s known for its clean, bright citrus flavors. Combining smooth vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and a touch of citrus liqueur, this martini is the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated evening, attending a cocktail party, or simply indulging in a refreshing drink, the Lemon Drop Martini is a go-to choice that never goes out of style. Its elegant presentation and crisp flavor make it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Premium Vodka (clean and smooth)
- 1 oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (bright and natural)
- ½ oz Triple Sec or Grand Marnier (for refined citrus flavor)
- 1 oz Simple Syrup or Agave Syrup (subtle sweetness)
- Garnish Ideas:
- A sugared rim with a hint of lemon zest for a polished finish
- A delicate lemon twist or edible flower for a refined look
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Glass
Start by preparing your martini glass. To create a sugared rim, moisten the rim of the glass with a lemon wedge and dip it into sugar. This will add a sweet touch to the cocktail and give it a polished finish. For added elegance, you can also zest a little lemon over the rim for extra fragrance.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of premium vodka, 1 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, ½ oz of Triple Sec or Grand Marnier, and 1 oz of simple syrup (or agave syrup, depending on your preference). Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and properly blended.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass, making sure to leave the ice behind. The clean, bright yellow color of the drink will shine beautifully through the sugared rim, creating an inviting and refreshing appearance.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
For a refined finish, garnish your Lemon Drop Martini with a delicate lemon twist or an edible flower. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the citrus aroma of the cocktail. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, zesty flavor!
Variation
- Frozen Lemon Drop Martini: Blend the ingredients with ice for a slushy, refreshing twist on the classic Lemon Drop Martini, perfect for warm weather.
- Lemon Basil Martini: Add a few fresh basil leaves to the shaker and muddle gently before shaking to infuse the cocktail with a fragrant herbal note that complements the lemony tartness.
- Lemon Raspberry Drop: Muddle a few raspberries in the shaker for a berry-infused version of this classic martini. The sweet fruit will enhance the drink’s complexity.
Cooking Note
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference in this cocktail. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it doesn’t have the same natural, vibrant flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: The amount of simple syrup or agave syrup can be adjusted to suit your preference for sweetness. Start with 1 oz and increase if you prefer a sweeter drink.
Serving Suggestions
- Cocktail Parties: The Lemon Drop Martini is an excellent choice for cocktail parties or dinner gatherings. Its clean, refreshing flavor pairs well with a wide variety of appetizers and light dishes.
- Girls’ Night In/Out: This cocktail is a great option for a girls’ night, whether you’re hosting at home or out on the town. Its bright flavor and elegant presentation will be a hit with friends.
- Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or New Year’s Eve, the Lemon Drop Martini adds a touch of sophistication to any special occasion.
Tips
- Use Premium Vodka: A clean, smooth vodka enhances the overall quality of the martini. Look for vodka with a subtle flavor profile to let the lemon and citrus liqueur shine.
- Customize the Sweetness: If you like your martini less sweet, reduce the amount of syrup or try using honey or agave syrup for a different flavor.
- Serve Chilled: For the best experience, chill your martini glass before preparing the cocktail. You can do this by filling the glass with ice water and letting it sit for a few minutes before pouring in the drink.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking involved)
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 180
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sugars: 15g
- Fat: 0g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and measurements.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the Lemon Drop Martini ahead of time?
A: It’s best to prepare this cocktail fresh, but you can pre-mix the vodka, lemon juice, Triple Sec, and syrup (without ice) and store it in the fridge. Shake with ice just before serving.
Q: Can I use a flavored vodka?
A: Yes, citrus-flavored vodka can be used to enhance the lemony flavor, or even vanilla vodka for a twist on the traditional taste.
Q: How can I make the Lemon Drop Martini less sweet?
A: Reduce the amount of simple syrup or agave syrup, or increase the lemon juice for a more tart, tangy flavor.
Conclusion
The Lemon Drop Martini is a classic, refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. With its crisp citrusy flavor, smooth vodka base, and sophisticated presentation, it’s a drink that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a night out, or celebrating a special occasion, the Lemon Drop Martini is sure to impress. Cheers to the perfect combination of sweet and tart, with a polished finish!
PrintLemon Drop Martini recipe
- Total Time: 5 min
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 oz Premium Vodka (clean and smooth)
- 1 oz Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice (bright and natural)
- ½ oz Triple Sec or Grand Marnier (for refined citrus flavor)
- 1 oz Simple Syrup or Agave Syrup (subtle sweetness)
- Garnish Ideas:
- A sugared rim with a hint of lemon zest for a polished finish
- A delicate lemon twist or edible flower for a refined look
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Glass
Start by preparing your martini glass. To create a sugared rim, moisten the rim of the glass with a lemon wedge and dip it into sugar. This will add a sweet touch to the cocktail and give it a polished finish. For added elegance, you can also zest a little lemon over the rim for extra fragrance.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 oz of premium vodka, 1 oz of freshly squeezed lemon juice, ½ oz of Triple Sec or Grand Marnier, and 1 oz of simple syrup (or agave syrup, depending on your preference). Add ice cubes to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and properly blended.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass, making sure to leave the ice behind. The clean, bright yellow color of the drink will shine beautifully through the sugared rim, creating an inviting and refreshing appearance.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
For a refined finish, garnish your Lemon Drop Martini with a delicate lemon twist or an edible flower. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also enhances the citrus aroma of the cocktail. Serve immediately and enjoy the crisp, zesty flavor!
Notes
- Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes all the difference in this cocktail. Avoid using bottled lemon juice, as it doesn’t have the same natural, vibrant flavor.
- Adjust the Sweetness: The amount of simple syrup or agave syrup can be adjusted to suit your preference for sweetness. Start with 1 oz and increase if you prefer a sweeter drink.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 0g