This Lavender Lemon Drop Martini is a refreshing twist on the classic cocktail, with a floral note of lavender that perfectly complements the tart lemon. It’s a showstopper for any gathering, combining elegance and a burst of citrusy flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
The Lavender Lemon Drop Martini is a delightful blend of floral and citrus flavors that’s both sophisticated and easy to make. It’s a fun, elevated take on the traditional lemon drop martini, offering a smooth, aromatic experience with each sip. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just unwinding after a long day, this cocktail will surely impress.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 3/4 oz lavender simple syrup (you’ll find the full recipe for this below)
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- Ice
- Fresh lavender sprig for garnish
- Sugar (for rimming the glass)
You can find the full list of ingredients and additional details below!
Directions
- Begin by preparing your glass. Rim the edge with sugar by running a lemon wedge around the rim and then dipping it in sugar.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, fresh lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, and triple sec.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
- Garnish with a fresh sprig of lavender and a lemon twist for that extra touch of elegance.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- If you’re not a fan of too much sweetness, you can adjust the amount of lavender simple syrup to your liking. Start with less, then taste and add more if needed.
- To enhance the floral notes, try using a high-quality lavender simple syrup. Homemade versions tend to give a better, fresher flavor than store-bought.
- Always shake your cocktail with ice to make sure it’s well-chilled before serving!
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- If you don’t have lavender simple syrup, you can substitute it with a little honey or agave syrup, though the flavor won’t be as floral.
- You can use gin instead of vodka for a slightly different, herbaceous taste.
- For a non-alcoholic version, try mixing lemon juice, lavender syrup, and soda water for a refreshing mocktail.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Lavender Lemon Drop Martini is perfect for any special occasion. Serve it with light appetizers such as bruschetta, fresh shrimp cocktails, or a citrusy goat cheese salad. It also pairs wonderfully with a seafood dinner or a cheese platter. The bright, zesty flavor complements lighter, fresh dishes beautifully.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This cocktail is best served fresh, but you can prepare the lavender simple syrup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. When preparing the martini, always serve it immediately after shaking to enjoy its full flavor and chill.
FAQs
- Can I make the lavender simple syrup at home?
Absolutely! Simply combine equal parts sugar and water, add a handful of dried lavender buds, and heat until the sugar dissolves. Let it steep for about 15 minutes, then strain the lavender out before using. - Can I use dried lavender for garnish?
Yes, dried lavender works for garnish, but fresh lavender adds a nice aromatic touch and looks much more appealing. If you don’t have fresh, dried will do just fine. - What if I don’t have triple sec?
You can substitute triple sec with Cointreau or another orange liqueur, or even a splash of orange juice if you prefer a less sugary option. - Can I make a larger batch for a party?
Definitely! You can multiply the ingredients to make a big batch. Just mix everything in a large pitcher (minus the ice) and serve over ice in individual glasses.
Conclusion
The Lavender Lemon Drop Martini is a cocktail that elevates any occasion with its vibrant flavors and stunning presentation. With its perfect balance of floral lavender and zesty lemon, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Cheers to a drink that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
PrintLavender Lemon Drop Martini
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: Cocktail
- Method: Shaken
- Cuisine: American
Description
A refreshing and aromatic twist on the classic lemon drop martini, this cocktail combines the zesty tang of lemon with the floral essence of lavender for a truly delightful experience.
Ingredients
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz lavender syrup
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz triple sec
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
- Ice
- Sugar (optional, for rimming the glass)
- Lemon twist or wedge for garnish
- Lavender sprig for garnish
Instructions
- If desired, rim the martini glass with sugar by moistening the rim with a lemon wedge and dipping it into sugar.
- In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lavender syrup, lemon juice, triple sec, and simple syrup (if using).
- Add ice to the shaker and shake vigorously until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or wedge and a sprig of lavender.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing floral-citrus notes.
Notes
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup to suit your taste.
- If you don’t have lavender syrup, you can make it by simmering equal parts sugar, water, and dried lavender until the sugar dissolves, then strain the lavender out.
- For an extra touch of flavor, try using a lemon-flavored vodka.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 martini
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Carbohydrates: 17 g