Paul Kushner
Quench your thirst on scorching summer days with the invigorating Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet. A timeless classic undergoes a rejuvenating transformation as it welcomes the crisp essence of cucumber and the aromatic embrace of basil, offering a delectable and health-conscious choice for those seeking a revitalizing cocktail.
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Expert tips for making the perfect Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet include using freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor, and using fresh basil muddled in the glass for that fresh herbal flavor. This is sure to be a hit at your summer gatherings, as it embodies the spirit of sunny days and al fresco enjoyment.
History
The Gimlet is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It is believed to have originated in the British Navy in the late 19th century as a way for sailors to combat scurvy, a disease caused by a lack of vitamin C. The British sailors would mix gin with lime juice to make a drink that was both refreshing and beneficial to their health.
In the early 20th century, the Gimlet became a popular cocktail in the United States, and it was often made with Rose’s Lime Cordial. However, in recent years, bartenders have started to experiment with new flavors and ingredients to create modern twists on this classic cocktail.
While the traditional Gimlet is made with gin, the Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet is typically made with vodka. The addition of cucumber and basil gives the drink a fresh and herbaceous flavor that pairs well with the tartness of the lime juice.
How to Make It
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin or vodka for a vodka gimlet
- 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
- ¾ oz basil simple syrup made by combining equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan with a handful of fresh basil leaves, simmering until the sugar dissolves, and then straining out the basil leaves
- 3 slices cucumber
- Ice
- 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.
Variations
The Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet is a refreshing drink that can be enjoyed on a hot summer day or any time of year. Here are a few variations of the classic Gimlet recipe that you can try:
Basil Gin Gimlet
If you’re a fan of basil, you’ll love this variation of the Gimlet. To make a Basil Gimlet, muddle a few fresh basil leaves in a shaker. Add gin, lime juice, and simple syrup, and shake with ice. Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a basil leaf for a refreshing and herbaceous twist on the classic cocktail.
Vodka Cucumber Gimlet
If you prefer a neutral spirit, try making a Vodka Gimlet. Muddle some fresh cucumber slices in a shaker, add vodka, freshly squeezed lime juice, and simple syrup, and shake with ice. Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice and garnish with a cucumber wheel for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail.
Floral Gin Gimlet
For a more floral twist on the traditional Gimlet, try using a floral gin instead of the classic London Dry gin. Muddle some fresh basil leaves in a shaker, add floral gin, freshly squeezed lime juice, and simple syrup, and shake with ice. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a slice of lime for a sophisticated and refreshing summer cocktail.
Cucumber Basil Gimlet with Cucumber Juice
For an even more refreshing twist on the Cucumber Basil Lime Gimlet, try using cucumber juice instead of muddling fresh cucumber slices. To make the cucumber juice, blend a few cucumbers with some water and granulated sugar in a blender. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve and use the resulting juice in place of the muddled cucumber in the classic recipe.
