Cucumber Gimlet Cocktail Recipe

Cucumber Gimlet Nutrition Facts

Calories:180

Fat:0 g

Protein:0 g

Carbohydrates:9 g

Alcohol:14%

Created by

Nic Polotnianko

I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.

Last Updated: August 23, 2024

History

The Cucumber Gimlet is a refreshing twist on the classic Gimlet cocktail, which dates back to the 19th century. The original Gimlet was made with gin, lime juice, and simple syrup, and was popular among British sailors as a way to prevent scurvy. The addition of cucumber gives this modern version a fresh, crisp flavor that's perfect for warm weather and outdoor gatherings.

  • The Cucumber Gimlet is often enjoyed by those who appreciate light, refreshing cocktails with a hint of sweetness.
  • It is a popular choice for garden parties, brunches, and summer events.

How Cucumber Gimlet Tastes?

The Cucumber Gimlet has a light, crisp, and refreshing taste with a subtle sweetness. The combination of gin, lime juice, and cucumber creates a harmonious balance of flavors, while the simple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness to complement the tartness of the lime.

Interesting facts about Cucumber Gimlet

  • The Cucumber Gimlet is a variation of the classic Gimlet, which was originally created as a way to prevent scurvy among sailors.
  • Cucumbers are known for their hydrating properties, making this cocktail a great choice for staying refreshed on a hot day.
  • The Cucumber Gimlet is often garnished with a cucumber slice or ribbon, adding an elegant touch to the presentation.

Ingredients

A few good options for Cucumber Gimlet are:

  • Brockmans
  • Silent Pool Gin
  • Hendrick's Gin

Learn everything on which Gin to choose

Gin

The gin is the backbone of our gimlet, giving it botanical depth and a touch of sophistication. Use too little, and you'll be missing the spirit (pun intended), too much, and it'll knock your socks off, possibly eclipsing the delicate cucumber.

Mary Mitkina

Lime Juice

Lime juice is our citrus superstar, bringing a tart freshness that balances the gin's complexity. If you skimp on it, your cocktail could become a one-note wonder; too much, and it'll pucker you up like a cartoon character.

Emma Rose

Simple Syrup

This sweet companion exists to harmonize the relationship between sharp gin and zesty lime, creating a liquid trio that sings. Forget it, and your gimlet might just sing off-key.

Alex Green

Cucumber

Cucumber slices are the spa treatment here, infusing the drink with a cool crispness that's as refreshing as jumping into a pool on a hot day. No cucumber? No problem, you could try a slice of life... or maybe just use a melon.

Mary Mitkina

Ice

Ice ice baby! It's here to chill and dilute the mix just right, ensuring your gimlet is as cool as a cucumber. Without it, you're in lukewarm waters—literally.

Emma Rose

Cucumber Slice (for garnish)

Lastly, the garnish is like the exclamation point at the end of an exciting sentence! A visual and flavorful cue to the drinker about the fresh journey they're about to embark on.

Alex Green

Recipe. How to make Cucumber Gimlet Drink

  1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle 3 cucumber slices to release their juice.
  2. Add 2 oz of gin, 1 oz of lime juice, and 0.5 oz of simple syrup to the shaker.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake well until chilled.
  4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
  5. Garnish with a cucumber slice or ribbon.

Pro Tips

  • Muddle the cucumber slices well to extract maximum flavor.
  • Use a high-quality gin for a smoother taste.
  • Chill the glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cool longer.

Perfect Pairings

Appetizers

  • Sushi: The clean flavors of a cucumber gimlet complement the delicate taste of sushi, especially lighter fish like tuna or salmon.
  • Oysters: The brininess of oysters paired with the cucumber's freshness can enhance the overall seafood experience.

Main Courses

  • Grilled Chicken: The crispness of the cucumber and the acidity of the lime juice can cut through the richness of grilled chicken.

Salads

  • Arugula salad: A peppery arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette would go nicely as the gimlet's acidity would blend well with the tang of the salad.

Snacks

  • Salted nuts: The saltiness of the nuts can be a nice counterbalance to the refreshing qualities of the gimlet.

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What you could change in Cucumber Gimlet

  • Vodka can be used instead of gin for a different flavor profile.
  • Lemon juice can be substituted for lime juice if desired.
  • Agave syrup can replace simple syrup for a more natural sweetness.

Explore all drinks starting with C here

And of course - twists🍹

Spicy Cucumber Gimlet

  • Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker before muddling.
  • Recipe: Follow the original recipe, including the jalapeño slice with the cucumber. This twist adds a kick to refreshment, giving your taste buds a zesty tango.

Herbal Cucumber Gimlet

  • Ingredients: Introduce fresh basil leaves to the mix.
  • Recipe: Muddle basil leaves alongside cucumber slices. This herbal twist brings a garden-fresh dimension to the gimlet that's as rejuvenating as a stroll through an herb garden.

Rose Cucumber Gimlet

  • Ingredients: Incorporate rose water (just a dash).
  • Recipe: Add rose water with other liquids into the shaker. This floral flirtation will dance on your palate, creating a bouquet of flavors that's subtly romantic and intriguing.

In case you forgot basics how to make Cucumber Gimlet

The basic composition of simple syrup is relatively straightforward – a 1:1 ratio of sugar and water. This mixture is heated until the sugar dissolves, resulting in a clear, sweet syrup.

Learn everything about simple syrup

Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.

Learn everything on how to shake

Place your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.

Learn everything on how to strain

The key to proper muddling is to crush the ingredients just enough to release their flavors and not overdo it. Over-muddling can result in a bitter taste, especially with herbs.

Learn everything on how to muddle

Garnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).

Learn everything on garnishing

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Frequently Asked Questions on Cucumber Gimlet

What is the best type of gin to use in a Cucumber Gimlet?

Any high-quality gin will do, but some enthusiasts prefer London Dry gin for its quintessential juniper flavor that pairs beautifully with the cucumber.

Can I prepare a Cucumber Gimlet in advance?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge and add the ice just before serving.

How does the taste of a Cucumber Gimlet change when vodka is used instead of gin?

Vodka is more neutral in flavor than gin, so the drink will have a stronger focus on the cucumber and lime flavors.

What is the ideal glass for serving a Cucumber Gimlet?

Traditionally, a Cucumber Gimlet is served in a coupe or martini glass, but it can also be served in an old-fashioned glass.

Can I use a sugar substitute in a Cucumber Gimlet?

Yes, you can use sweeteners like honey, agave nectar, or stevia. Adjust the amount to your preference.

What are some dishes that pair well with a Cucumber Gimlet?

Cucumber Gimlets pair well with light dishes like salads, seafood, and chicken. The refreshing flavors of the cocktail complement these types of dishes nicely.

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