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I know spring has truly sprung when I start craving cucumber gimlets over Manhattans. This fresh take on the classic gimlet cocktail is easy, delicious and impressive for a crowd. And, it totally tastes the best outside on a warm spring day.
This is another one of those cocktails that popped up for me during the "cocktail" phase of COVID-19 quarantine. The idea of adding cucumber to a drink as the main flavor was totally intriguing to me, as I hadn't had it much. And trust me, these cocktails cucumber gimlets have flavor in spades.
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What's a Gimlet?
A gimlet is a classic cocktail made from gin and lime juice, and nothing else. Easy, simple, and refreshing. The name apparently comes from one of two places. Option 1: a gimlet is a drill that was often used on Royal Navy ships - and the drink was said to have a piercing impact on the sailors. Option 2: The possible inventor of the drink was named Sir Thomas Gimlette, who was a naval surgeon and *may* have come up with it as a way to cure scurvy. Fun times!
Variations
These days, there are plenty of different variations on the gimlet, starting with having it with either gin or vodka. This recipe calls for gin, but you can absolutely swap it for vodka if you prefer. Gimlets go well with a wide variety of flavors too, so feel free to try some of these ideas:
- Cucumber, basil, and lemon
- Cucumber, dill and lemon
- Lemon and lavender
- Elderflower and thyme simple syrup
- Watermelon and basil
- Grapefruit and rosemary
Really, your imagination is the only limit.
Ingredients in the Cucumber Gimlet
This isn't a traditional gimlet, so we are switching things up a bit here. This is the flavor profile we're working with:
- Cucumber: totally refreshing and delightful with gin.
- Mint: see above, and also pairs really well with the cucumber
- Lemon juice: traditionally lime juice goes in a gimlet, and you can absolutely swap that here - it's delicious.
- Simple syrup: for a hint of sweetness to balance out the booze.
How to Serve it
Typically, gimlets are served straight up in coupe glasses, which I would recommend. If it's a hot day though, and you're craving some ice, throw it in a rocks glass with an ice cube. Definitely garnish with fresh cucumber and mint leaves.
Other Awesome Cocktails to Try
📖 Recipe
Cucumber Mint Gimlets
Equipment
- Cocktail mixer
Ingredients
- ⅔ C cucumber cubed
- ¼ C mint leaves
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4 oz gin
- 1 oz lemon or lime juice
- fresh cucumber for garnish
Instructions
- Combine the cucumber, mint and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker or mixer (preferably shaker). Muddle until the cucumber becomes soft.
- Add 1 cup of ice to the shaker. Add the gin and lemon juice. Shake (or stir) vigorously for 30-45 seconds. Double strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with fresh cucumber.
Notes
Nutrition
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Hi, I'm Cara! I'm a food writer, journalist, and recipe developer. I'm obsessed good food, good wine, good cocktails and entertaining. I've picked up a few tips over the years, and love sharing them with others.
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