This Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini is a burst of fruity flavor and zingy lemon goodness. Fresh strawberries, tangy lemon juice, and a splash of vodka come together for a refreshing treat!
I love making these for gatherings—everyone enjoys that sweet and sour mix! Plus, it’s so pretty, you might want to take a picture before you drink it! 🍓🥂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. If strawberries aren’t available, you could try raspberries or even peaches for a different twist.
Vodka: Any good-quality vodka will work here. If you want a lighter option, a vodka with a fruit flavor can enhance the overall taste. Alternatively, you can use a flavored liqueur if you want something sweeter.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon Juice: Fresh lemons are a must for that bright flavor! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice can be a quick substitute, but be careful with the quantity as it can be stronger.
Triple Sec: This orange liqueur adds sweetness and depth. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can swap it with a sugar-free orange syrup or simply leave it out for a less sweet drink.
Simple Syrup: You can make this easily at home by mixing equal parts sugar and water. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste. For a healthier alternative, consider using honey or agave syrup.
How Do You Muddle Strawberries Effectively?
Muddling strawberries releases their juice and gives your drink a vibrant flavor. Follow these simple steps for best results:
- Use a sturdy muddler or the back of a spoon.
- Place the hulked strawberries in the cocktail shaker. Press down gently to crush them, twisting slightly as you go.
- Avoid over-muddling, as this can turn the fruit into a mush. You want some texture in your drink.
By properly muddling, you’ll get the sweet strawberry essence to infuse into your cocktail, making your martini deliciously refreshing!
Refreshing Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 fresh strawberries, hulled
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 1 oz triple sec or orange liqueur
- 1/2 oz simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- Ice cubes
- Granulated sugar, for rimming the glass
- Lemon slices and strawberries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and refreshing cocktail to whip up for yourself or to impress your friends during a gathering. Just gather your ingredients, mix, and serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Start by preparing your martini glass. Take a lemon wedge and rub it around the rim of the glass. Then, dip the rim into granulated sugar, coating it evenly for a sweet touch. Set the glass aside and get ready to mix!
2. Muddle the Strawberries:
In a cocktail shaker, add the hulled fresh strawberries. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to muddle them until they release their juicy pulp. This step is key in giving your martini that fresh strawberry flavor.
3. Mix the Ingredients:
Next, add the vodka, freshly squeezed lemon juice, triple sec (or orange liqueur), simple syrup, and a handful of ice cubes into the shaker. The ice helps chill the drink and meld the flavors together.
4. Shake It Up:
Put the lid on the shaker and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You want it to be well chilled and mixed. The shaking also helps to blend the strawberry goodness into the cocktail!
5. Strain and Serve:
Using a strainer, pour the mixture into your prepared martini glass. Make sure to hold back any solids from the strawberries, so you get a smooth drink.
6. Garnish:
To finish off, garnish with a fresh strawberry and a slice of lemon on the rim of the glass. It looks fantastic and adds a lovely touch!
7. Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini. Perfect for sipping on a warm day or at a special occasion. Cheers!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just make sure to thaw them first before muddling. This will help release their juices more easily. You might also want to slightly reduce the amount of simple syrup, as frozen strawberries can be sweeter than fresh ones.
How Can I Adjust the Sweetness of the Martini?
If you prefer a sweeter drink, feel free to add a bit more simple syrup. Start with an additional 1/4 oz and taste, adding more if needed. Conversely, if it’s too sweet, increase the lemon juice a little to balance the flavors.
Can I Make This Drink Non-Alcoholic?
Absolutely! To make a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the vodka and triple sec with sparkling water or lemon-lime soda. This will keep the refreshing flavor and add a bit of fizz!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
It’s best to make these martinis fresh as they don’t store well after mixing. However, if you have leftover strawberry mixture, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. Just shake it again before serving!
