Ingredients
For one serving of the Lemon Basil Martini, you’ll need:
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2 oz vodka (plain or citrus) 🍸 – Use citrus vodka for more lemon punch, or plain for a cleaner basil-forward flavor.
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¾ oz fresh lemon juice 🍋 – Always freshly squeezed for the best zing.
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½ oz simple syrup or honey syrup 🍯 – Choose based on your sweetness preference; honey syrup adds depth and roundness.
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2–3 fresh basil leaves 🌿 – Muddled gently to release essential oils without bitterness.
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Optional: ¼ oz elderflower liqueur 🌸 – For a soft floral back note that elevates the overall aroma and flavor.
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Ice 🧊
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Garnish: A fresh basil leaf or lemon twist for aromatics and visual elegance.
Instructions
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Chill Your Glass:
Place your martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you build the cocktail. A chilled glass enhances the crispness. -
Muddle the Basil:
In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle 2 to 3 fresh basil leaves. You don’t want to shred the leaves—just press enough to release the fragrant oils. -
Add the Liquids:
Into the shaker, pour:-
2 oz vodka (plain or citrus)
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¾ oz fresh lemon juice
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½ oz simple syrup or honey syrup
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Optional: ¼ oz elderflower liqueur
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Add Ice & Shake:
Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15–20 seconds. This chills and dilutes the cocktail slightly for smoothness. -
Strain into Martini Glass:
Discard any ice water from your martini glass. Double strain the cocktail using a fine mesh strainer to remove basil pieces and achieve a silky texture. -
Garnish & Serve:
Garnish with a fresh basil leaf or a lemon twist. Serve immediately for peak freshness and aroma.
Notes
This drink shines brightest when the ingredients are ultra-fresh. Basil that’s just been picked and lemons that are freshly squeezed can elevate the flavor dramatically. Use a sharp citrus vodka like Absolut Citron or Ketel One Citroen for an extra lemon lift. If using elderflower liqueur (like St-Germain), keep it light—it should complement, not compete.
Also, don’t skip the double straining. It’s the secret to the ultra-clean look and smooth mouthfeel that defines a luxury martini.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 175 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Protein: 0g