Some purists say a true martini consists of nothing more than a fine gin, a hint of dry vermouth and an olive or a lemon twist, and not both, dropped into a proper martini glass. Then some say: “Sure, but have you tried this cucumber martini recipe? Because if not… well… you need to.” Call it a cucumber martini cocktail if you must cleave to tradition, but if you love a refreshing yet good, stiff drink, then you’re going to want to know how to make a cucumber martini.
And the good news is if you know how to make a classic martini and slice a cucumber into discs, you already have the skills to make this cucumber martini. The choice of vodka or gin is up to you, as is the occasion you enjoy this drink. It’s a fine after-dinner sip that’ll cool you down after a round of golf on a sunny day, and, ironically, it’s also a welcome addition to a cold winter night with a warm fire crackling nearby. In other words, any occasion is the right time for a cucumber martini.
Ingredients for the Cucumber Martini
- Cucumber slices: We heartily recommend you use an English cucumber and have three freshly-cut slices on hand for each cocktail./li>
- Vodka or gin: It’s your call which spirit you use, just make sure it is a pure version of either the vodka or the gin. A flavored liquor won’t do here.
- Dry vermouth: Vermouth is used so sparingly in martinis (and in general) that it’s a good idea to spend the money on a good vermouth. You’ll have it on hand for quite some time.
- Simple syrup: Store-bought simple syrup is fine of course, but keep in mind that simple syrup is nothing more than one part water, one part sugar. Simmer the mixture and stir until the sugar dissolves, then let the syrup cool. Simple as that, you have made it yourself for cheap and just as good as the store-bought.
Directions
Step 1: Muddle the cucumber in the shaker, then add ice
Laura Scherb for Taste of Home
Slice three discs of English cucumber, each about 1/8-inch thick. Then muddle them in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Next, add enough ice to fill the shaker 3/4 cup of the way up.
Step 2: Add the liquor, vermouth, and syrup and get shaking
Laura Scherb for Taste of Home
Pour the vodka or gin, vermouth and simple syrup into the shaker and close it up. Shake it vigorously for 10 seconds to properly combine the ingredients and chill the liquid. Shaking for anything more is overkill.
Step 3: Serve, garnish, and enjoy
Laura Scherb for Taste of Home
Pour the mixed cocktail into a proper martini glass (or any glass, if you don’t have one handy) and garnish the cocktail with one more slice of cucumber if you wish,