Bright, zesty, and electrifyingly smooth, the Green Lightning cocktail is a dazzling mix of bold citrus flavors and vibrant color. Melon liqueur brings a juicy sweetness, while citrus vodka and sweet & sour mix add a refreshing tang that keeps each sip lively. A splash of lemon-lime soda gives the drink a fizzy finish, making it both refreshing and invigorating. Garnished with a lime slice and a cherry, this eye-catching cocktail is perfect for parties, summer nights, or anytime you want a drink that packs a flavorful punch with a neon-green glow!
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Tasting Notes
Green Lightning is a zesty, fruit-forward cocktail with a vibrant melon and citrus punch. The sweet & sour mix provides a tangy balance, while lemon-lime soda adds effervescence. The citrus vodka enhances the drink’s bold flavors, making it a refreshing yet electrifying choice for any cocktail lover.
Equipment and Glassware
This cocktail is best served in a highball glass to highlight its neon green hue. A jigger ensures accurate measurements, while a bar spoon helps blend the flavors smoothly. Ice is essential to keep it chilled, and a knife is needed to prepare the lime slice and cherry garnish.
Ingredients
- 2 oz melon liqueur
- 1.5 oz citrus vodka
- 2 oz sweet & sour mix
- 0.75 oz lemon-lime soda
- Lime slice for garnish
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice to the top.
- Pour the melon liqueur over the ice, followed by the citrus vodka.
- Add the sweet & sour mix and stir gently to combine.
- Top off the drink with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
- Garnish with a lime slice and a cherry before serving.
Pro Tips
- For a stronger citrus flavor, squeeze fresh lime juice into the mix.
- If you prefer a less sweet drink, opt for a homemade sweet & sour mix.
- Chilling the glass before serving keeps the cocktail cold longer.
- A sugared rim can add an extra touch of sweetness and texture.
When to Serve
Green Lightning is a fun, eye-catching drink perfect for parties, neon-themed events, or summer nights. Its sweet, citrusy kick makes it a great choice for casual get-togethers, barbecues, or game nights. Serve it whenever you want to impress guests with a bold, flavorful, and refreshing cocktail.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best flavor, use a premium melon liqueur like Midori or DeKuyper. A quality citrus vodka such as Absolut Citron or Deep Eddy Lemon enhances the drink’s zesty profile. Pair with a crisp lemon-lime soda like Sprite or 7UP to keep the cocktail light, refreshing, and perfectly balanced.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Green Lightning, here are five similar cocktails to try:
- Chartreuse Sour
- Blood Moon Potion
- Tie Me to the Bedpost Cocktail
- Wicked Witch Cocktail
- The Grinch Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 oz melon liqueur
- 1.5 oz citrus vodka
- 2 oz sweet & sour mix
- 0.75 oz lemon-lime soda
- Lime slice for garnish
- Cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a highball glass with ice to the top.
- Pour the melon liqueur over the ice, followed by the citrus vodka.
- Add the sweet & sour mix and stir gently to combine.
- Top off the drink with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
- Garnish with a lime slice and a cherry before serving.
Notes
- For an extra touch of flavor, chill your glass before serving.
- Use freshly squeezed lemon-lime soda for a crisper taste, or opt for a lemon-lime sparkling water for a lighter version.
- Stir lightly to retain the fizz of the soda, ensuring the drink stays bubbly.