This Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini is a refreshing treat! With sweet strawberries and zesty lemon, it’s perfect for sunny days or fun nights. Cheers to fruity goodness!
Whenever I make this, I can’t help but smile. It’s like summer in a glass! 🍓🍋 I love to enjoy it with friends—it’s sure to brighten any gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vodka: Use your favorite vodka for this recipe. If you prefer a lower alcohol option, you can try using a flavored sparkling water instead of vodka for a refreshing mocktail.
Fresh lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best for a bright flavor! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice works in a pinch, but it may not taste as fresh.
Simple syrup: You can easily make this at home by combining equal parts sugar and water. For a healthier option, use honey or agave syrup instead.
Fresh strawberries: If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen strawberries. Just thaw and mash them before using.
Sugar for rimming: White sugar is traditional, but you can use colored sugar or even coconut sugar for a different flavor.
How Do I Properly Muddle the Strawberries?
Muddling is a great way to release flavors from fruits. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use the flat end of a muddler or the back of a spoon.
- Gently press down on the strawberries in the bottom of the shaker. You just want to break them apart, not turn them into a puree.
- Muddle until the strawberries have released their juice, which should take about 15-20 seconds.
Be careful not to over-muddle; you want to keep some texture without making it too mushy!
Easy Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 4-5 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- Ice cubes
- Sugar (for rimming the glass)
- Lemon slice and strawberry for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing cocktail takes about 10 minutes to prepare. You’ll be able to enjoy this delightful drink in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass
Start by getting your martini glass ready. Take a lemon slice and rub it around the rim of the glass. Then dip the rim into sugar to create a lovely, sweet edge. Set the glass aside for later.
2. Muddle the Strawberries
In a cocktail shaker, add the fresh, hulled strawberries. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently press down on the strawberries to release their juice. Just a few strong presses will do to get them nice and juicy!
3. Mix the Ingredients
Next, add the vodka, fresh lemon juice, simple syrup, and ice cubes into the shaker with the muddled strawberries. It’s time for a good shake! Secure the lid on the shaker and shake it vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. You want it to be nice and cold, so shake it well!
4. Strain and Serve
Once shaken, take off the lid and strain the mixture into your prepared martini glass. If you want a smoother drink, you can use a fine mesh strainer to catch any strawberry bits.
5. Garnish and Enjoy
Lastly, add a fresh strawberry and a lemon slice on the rim of the glass for a beautiful garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini with friends!
Can I Use Lemon Juice from a Bottle Instead of Fresh Lemon Juice?
Yes, you can use bottled lemon juice if fresh lemons aren’t available. However, fresh lemon juice gives a brighter flavor that’s hard to replicate, so use it if you can!
What Can I Substitute for Simple Syrup?
If you don’t have simple syrup on hand, you can use honey or agave syrup as an alternative. Just keep in mind that honey will add a different flavor, so choose what works best for your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Martini Mix?
Since this cocktail is best served fresh, it’s not recommended to store the mixed ingredients. However, you can prepare the strawberry puree and simple syrup in advance. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 days and mix just before serving!
Can I Make a Non-Alcoholic Version?
Absolutely! To create a mocktail, simply replace the vodka with sparkling water or a lemon-flavored soda. You can also add a bit more strawberry puree to enhance the fruity flavor!
