Cucumber Basil Gimlet
This cucumber basil gimlet is the embodiment of summer in a glass! It’s refreshing, light, and the most beautiful shade of green. Chunks of cucumber and fresh basil leaves give this classic cocktail an aromatic herbal flavor that is perfect for spring and summer. Simple syrup adds a touch of sweetness, while lime juice adds a thirst-quenching tartness.
Hey there, and welcome back, friends.
You are in for a refreshing treat!
If you didn’t know, a gimlet is a classic cocktail typically made with gin, lime juice, and simple syrup. And it’s simply stunning. This version expands on the classic drink by adding fresh cucumber and basil leaves.
I highly suggest you use freshly squeezed lime juice instead of bottled lime juice because real lime juice will yield the best and freshest flavor. If you prefer, you can use bottled lime juice for convenience.
This drink uses a cocktail shaker to combine the ingredients and make them cold. However, you can easily make this drink without a cocktail shaker. In place of the cocktail shaker, you can use a large mason jar and a lid. Then, use a small strainer to strain the drink into your glass.
I prefer to make this gimlet using a good quality gin like Hendricks, Bombay Sapphire, or Beefeater. It comes down to personal taste and which one you prefer.
If you prefer not to drink alcohol, you can easily make this into a mocktail. Follow the recipe directions, but leave out the gin. Instead of gin, I suggest topping the drink with chilled tonic water or seltzer. You can add the tonic water after you’ve strained the drink into a glass.
Ingredients
- cucumber
- fresh basil leaves
- some simple syrup
- freshly squeezed lime juice
- gin
- ice
How to Make Cucumber Basil Gimlet
Add the diced cucumber, basil leaves, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker.
Using a muddle stick, muddle until the cucumbers have broken down and are very juicy.
Next, you’ll want to add the flavor. Add the lime juice, gin, and a large handful of ice to the cocktail shaker.
Shake vigorously for a few seconds until your shaker feels chilled and frosty.
Strain the gimlet into a coupe or martini glass.
Garnish with cucumber and basil if desired.
How to Store
Store any leftover basil cucumber gimlet in your fridge and consume it the next day or discard it. This cocktail is best served fresh. I do not recommend making it ahead.
More Cocktail Recipes
- Strawberry Popsicle Prosecco Cocktail
- Watermelon Sangria
- Rum Sour
- Peach Rosé Sangria
- Blood Orange Mezcal Cocktail
What do you think of this amazing basil cucumber gimlet recipe? What appetizer would you serve with a glass of this cocktail? Let me know in the comment section below.
If you share across social media, make sure to tag #aclassictwist, so I can see your beautiful creation come to life!
Cheers friends!
Cucumber Basil Gimlet Recipe
Cucumber Basil Gimlet
This cucumber basil gimlet is the embodiment of summer in a glass! It has an aromatic herbal flavor with a touch of sweetness.
Ingredients
- 3-inch piece of cucumber, diced
- 5-6 large basil leaves
- ½ ounce (1 tablespoon) simple syrup
- 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) freshly squeezed lime juice
- 2 ounces (4 tablespoons) gin, such as Hendrick’s or Bombay Sapphire
- Ice
Instructions
- Add the diced cucumber, basil leaves, and simple syrup to a cocktail shaker. Muddle until the cucumbers have broken down and are very juicy.
- Add the lime juice, gin, and a large handful of ice to the cocktail shaker. Shake vigorously for 20-30 seconds until your shaker feels chilled and frosty.
- Strain the gimlet into a coupe or martini glass. Garnish with cucumber and basil if desired.
Simple Syrup Recipe:
- Combine ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup water in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently as it heats up to encourage the sugar to dissolve.
- Remove it from the heat once the syrup comes to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cool to room temperature before bottling it.
- Keep simple syrup in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Depending on how juicy your limes are, you’ll need anywhere from 1-3 to yield enough juice for the recipe.
- This is a lightly sweetened drink. If you prefer it sweeter, you can use ¾ ounce simple syrup.
- To achieve the ribboned cucumber garnish in the photos, use a vegetable peeler to remove two long, thin slices from a cucumber. Arrange each slice into an accordion shape, then thread it onto a cocktail pick.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 138Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 30mgCarbohydrates: 36gFiber: 1gSugar: 20gProtein: 1g