This Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini is a fun and refreshing drink! It combines juicy strawberries with zesty lemon and a splash of vodka for a delightful mix.
Honestly, this drink is a party favorite! I love whipping it up for friends, and they always ask for seconds. It’s so easy, I could make it with my eyes closed (but I don’t recommend that)! 🍓🍋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use your favorite brand of vodka for a smooth base. If you’re looking for something different, consider using flavored vodka, like citrus or strawberry, to enhance those flavors.
Triple sec: If you don’t have triple sec on hand, orange liqueurs like Cointreau or Grand Marnier work well too. You can also skip it and add a bit more fresh lemon juice.
Fresh lemon juice: Always use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. If you only have bottled lemon juice, that works in a pinch, though it may not be as bright.
Strawberry puree: Using fresh strawberries is ideal! If they’re out of season, frozen strawberries or store-bought puree are good alternatives. Just make sure to thaw the frozen ones first.
Simple syrup: You can make this easily at home by dissolving equal parts sugar and water. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, consider using agave syrup or a sugar substitute.
How Do I Properly Rim My Glass with Sugar?
Rimming your glass with sugar adds a beautiful touch and flavor! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by cutting a lemon wedge and running it around the top edge of your martini glass.
- Pour some sugar onto a small plate, then dip the rim of the glass into the sugar so it coats the edge evenly. You can twist the glass to get an even layer.
- Set the glass aside to let the rim dry a bit before pouring in your cocktail.
This simple step enhances the presentation and gives your cocktail a sweet start with every sip!
How to Make an Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz triple sec (orange liqueur)
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 oz strawberry puree (about 4-5 fresh strawberries)
- 1 tablespoon simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice
- Sugar, for rimming the glass
- Lemon slice and whole strawberry, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful cocktail will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to make, perfect for a gathering or just a relaxing evening at home. So, let’s get mixing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Glass
Start by giving your martini glass some flair! Take a lemon wedge and run it around the edge of the glass. Then, dip the rim into a plate filled with sugar to coat it nicely. Set it aside while you make your cocktail.
2. Make the Strawberry Puree
In a cocktail shaker, add your fresh strawberries. Muddle them with a muddler or the back of a spoon to create a puree. If you prefer, you can also blend the strawberries until smooth in a blender. Either way, you’ll want it to be a nice consistency!
3. Mix the Ingredients
Now it’s time to mix! Into the shaker, add the vodka, triple sec, fresh lemon juice, strawberry puree, simple syrup, and ice. Fill the shaker about halfway with ice to ensure your drink is nice and chilled.
4. Shake It Up
Put the lid tightly on the shaker and shake it vigorously. You want to shake until the outside of the shaker feels cold, which should take about 15-20 seconds. This will mix everything beautifully!
5. Strain and Serve
Remove the lid and strain the cocktail into your prepared sugar-rimmed martini glass. Using a fine mesh strainer can help catch any strawberry bits for a smooth finish.
6. Garnish Your Cocktail
To finish, garnish your martini with a lovely lemon slice on the rim and a whole strawberry perched on the edge. Looks fantastic!
7. Enjoy!
Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini! Sip and savor the refreshing combination of sweet strawberries and zesty lemon. Cheers!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries for the Puree?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before blending or muddling to create your puree. This will ensure you get a smooth consistency in your drink!
Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Martini?
Yes, you can! Feel free to adjust the amount of simple syrup based on your taste preference. If you prefer a less sweet drink, start with less syrup and add more if needed. You can also substitute simple syrup with honey or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
How Can I Store Leftover Strawberry Puree?
If you have extra strawberry puree left over, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays for longer storage and use it in future cocktails or smoothies!
What Can I Pair with This Martini?
This Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini pairs beautifully with light appetizers like seafood or salads, or even serves as a refreshing drink alongside brunch dishes. Enjoy it with some fresh fruit or a light cheese platter for a delightful combination!
