Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet

The Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet is a refreshing, garden-inspired twist on the traditional gimlet. It combines crisp cucumber, fragrant basil, and fresh lime juice for a cocktail that’s as cooling as it is flavorful. Whether made with gin for a botanical touch or vodka for a cleaner base, this drink is bright, herbaceous, and easy to enjoy. It’s ideal for warm-weather sipping or whenever you need something crisp and aromatic in hand.

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Tasting Notes

This Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet is fresh and herbal with a cooling finish. Crisp cucumber and bright lime juice offer a clean, zippy base, while the basil simple syrup adds soft green notes and a touch of sweetness. Whether made with gin or vodka, the spirit remains smooth and well-integrated, making this cocktail feel both refreshing and grounded. It’s light on the palate with a dry edge from the lime and subtle vegetal layers from muddled cucumber. A final hint of basil rounds it out with a fragrant, summery lift.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a cocktail shaker and muddler to properly extract flavor from the cucumber. A jigger helps with accurate measuring, while a strainer ensures a smooth pour. Serve this drink in a rocks glass over fresh ice for optimal presentation. A small knife is handy for preparing the cucumber slices and basil garnish. If you’d like a cleaner texture, a fine mesh strainer can be used to remove pulp from the final pour.

Ingredients

• 2 oz gin or vodka for a vodka gimlet
• 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
• ¾ oz basil simple syrup
• 3 slices cucumber
• Basil leaf for garnish

Instructions

• Muddle the cucumber slices in a cocktail shaker until they release their juices and fragrance.
• Add the gin (or vodka), lime juice, and basil simple syrup to the shaker.
• Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds.
• Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
• Garnish with a basil leaf.

Pro Tips

• Use English cucumber for a milder, less bitter taste
• Always use freshly squeezed lime juice for the cleanest flavor
• Shake vigorously to properly integrate the syrup and lime
• Fine-strain the cocktail if you prefer a pulp-free finish
• Use gin for a botanical layer or vodka for a neutral base
• Store leftover basil syrup in the fridge for up to one week
• Chill the glass ahead of time for better temperature control
• Garnish with a slapped basil leaf to release more aroma
• Avoid over-muddling cucumber to prevent bitterness
• Add a pinch of sea salt to the shaker to brighten the cucumber

When to Serve

This Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet is ideal for warm afternoons, outdoor brunches, or as a welcome drink at summer parties. Its clean and cooling flavor makes it a perfect pre-dinner option, especially with dishes featuring grilled vegetables, seafood, or goat cheese. It’s also great for spa days or garden-themed gatherings when a light and herbal cocktail is in order.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Gin

• Hendrick’s (cucumber notes complement this recipe well)
• The Botanist
• Tanqueray No. Ten
• Bombay Sapphire East
• St. George Botanivore

Vodka

• Belvedere
• Ketel One
• Chopin
• Grey Goose
• Prairie Organic

Similar Cocktails

• Pomegranate Vodka Gimlet
• Cucumber Vodka Gimlet
• The Sunny Getaway
• Coconut Vodka Lime Crush
• Italian Sgroppino