Dirty Caesar Martini

The Dirty Caesar Martini is a savory twist on a classic dirty martini, made with Caesar-infused vodka, pepperoncini brine, a touch of dry vermouth, and lemon juice. It’s bold, briny, and full of umami, topped with an eye-catching garnish that includes parmesan, anchovy, and a Caesar crouton. This martini is a creative choice for lovers of savory cocktails and an unexpected crowd-pleaser at brunch or happy hour.

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Tasting Notes

The Dirty Caesar Martini offers a savory and bold profile that leans into brine, herbs, and umami. The Caesar-infused vodka brings creamy, garlicky, and tangy notes that contrast with the brightness of lemon and the slight dryness from vermouth. Pepperoncini brine adds heat and sharpness without overpowering the drink. The garnish anchovy, crouton, parmesan, and pepper reinforces the Caesar salad inspiration and adds depth and texture. Every sip delivers a punch of seasoning, tempered by the cold, clean character of the base spirit. It’s sharp, assertive, and meant for those who appreciate something outside the standard martini format.

Equipment and Glassware

This Dirty Caesar Martini is best prepared using a cocktail shaker to ensure full integration and chilling. A Hawthorne strainer is recommended for clean pouring, while a fine mesh strainer can help remove any residual Caesar dressing from the infused vodka. A jigger ensures accurate measurements, and cocktail picks allow for tidy garnish presentation. The drink should be served in a chilled martini glass to maintain its crisp profile. Using high-quality bar tools will ensure a well-executed cocktail, while attention to garnish presentation adds to the drink’s visual impact and dining appeal.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Caesar-infused vodka
• 0.5 oz pepperoncini brine
• 0.25 oz dry vermouth
• 0.25 oz lemon juice
• Garnish: parmesan cheese, pepperoncini pepper, Caesar crouton, anchovy, black pepper, and lemon peel

How to Make Caesar-Infused Vodka

• Combine 3 parts vodka to 1 part Caesar dressing in a sealed container.
• Shake well and refrigerate for 24–48 hours.
• Strain out the solids and store the infused vodka in the fridge for up to one week.

Instructions

• Add Caesar-infused vodka, pepperoncini brine, dry vermouth, and lemon juice to a shaker.
• Add ice and shake well until chilled.
• Strain into a chilled martini glass.
• Garnish with parmesan cheese, a pepperoncini pepper, a Caesar crouton, and an anchovy.
• Top with freshly ground black pepper and a twist of lemon peel.

Pro Tips

• Use a high-quality Caesar dressing for a cleaner infusion
• Chill the martini glass before serving for better temperature control
• Shake the infused vodka before use if it has separated
• Rinse anchovy under cold water for a milder finish
• Adjust pepperoncini brine amount to control salinity
• Add a celery leaf or cherry tomato to enhance presentation
• Use coarse black pepper for added texture and flavor
• Avoid oil-heavy dressings when infusing vodka to prevent separation
• Taste the vodka before mixing to gauge strength of flavor
• Garnish right before serving to keep textures fresh

When to Serve

The Dirty Caesar Martini is well-suited for bold palates and social gatherings where a conversation-starter drink is welcome. Serve it as a pre-dinner option at cocktail parties, brunches, or themed dinners that lean savory rather than sweet. It also works well as a first course pairing at dinners featuring seafood, antipasti, or rich appetizers. This is a cocktail for guests who appreciate flavors with structure, balance, and contrast. It fits best in cooler months or at occasions where guests are open to creative interpretations of classic drinks.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

• Vodka:
  • Tito’s Handmade Vodka
  • Absolut
  • Stolichnaya
  • Ketel One
  • Grey Goose

Similar Cocktails

• Dill Pickle Martini
• Dirty Beet Martini
• Coffee Boulevardier
• Bitter Lemon Cooler
• Aperol Fizz