The Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini is a tasty cocktail made with fresh strawberry puree, lemon juice, and vodka. It’s sweet and tart, perfect for sipping outside on a warm day. This drink is like a regular lemon drop martini but with strawberries, which make it a bit sweeter. Strawberries and lemons taste great together, and this drink is no exception. It’s smooth and has a bright flavor. It’s best to use fresh berries and lemon, but you can use thawed frozen berries too. This cocktail is a fun twist on a classic and is perfect for summer!
Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini Ingredients
Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the best choice for this martini as they provide a natural sweetness and fresh flavor. However, if fresh strawberries are not available, you can use frozen strawberries that have been thawed.
Fresh Lemon Juice: The recipe calls for 1 ounce of fresh lemon juice, which is about half of a lemon. Fresh lemon juice adds a tart and citrusy flavor to the martini. While bottled lemon juice can be used as a substitute, it may have a stronger taste, so you may need to adjust the amount accordingly.
Simple Syrup: Simple syrup is a mixture of equal parts water and granulated sugar. It helps to mellow out the tartness of the lemon juice and strawberries, as well as blend the flavors together. You don’t need a lot of simple syrup for this recipe, as the strawberries and lemon juice already provide sweetness.
Vodka: Vodka is the base spirit for this martini. Lemon or citrus-flavored vodka is recommended for a more pronounced lemon flavor, but plain vodka can also be used. If using plain vodka, you may want to add an extra 1/2 ounce of lemon juice to enhance the citrus flavor.
How To Make Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini
To make a Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini, start by blending fresh strawberries with water to make a smooth puree. Strain the puree through a sieve to remove any pulp and seeds. Set the puree aside.
Next, prepare the martini glasses by running a lemon wedge around the rim of each glass and dipping them in granulated sugar to coat the rims.
In a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice, combine the strawberry puree, vodka, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Shake the mixture until it’s frosty and cold.
Finally, strain the martini into the prepared glasses and garnish each with a whole strawberry and a slice of lemon.
To make simple syrup, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved, then allow the syrup to cool before using.
What is the Difference Between a Lemon Drop and a Lemon Martini?
A Lemon Drop Martini is a classic cocktail made with vodka, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. The Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini adds blended strawberries, giving it a fruitier and more vibrant taste. Both have a sugared rim and a citrus-forward flavor, but the strawberry version has an extra layer of sweetness and berry flavor.
Which Alcohol Goes Well with Strawberries?
Vodka: Smooth and neutral, allowing the strawberry flavor to shine.
Gin: Adds herbal and botanical notes for a more complex taste.
Champagne or Prosecco: Perfect for a sparkling version of this cocktail.
Rum: White rum can add a tropical flair.
What Food Pairs Well with a Lemon Drop Cocktail?
Cheese platter (brie, goat cheese, or parmesan)
Seafood appetizers (shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon, or ceviche)
Light salads with citrus vinaigrette
Desserts (lemon bars, strawberry shortcake, or fruit tarts)
Variations
Strawberry Lemon Drop Cocktail with Sparkling Wine: Replace half of the vodka with prosecco for a bubbly version.
Strawberry Basil Lemon Drop Martini: Muddle fresh basil with strawberries for a herbal twist.
Frozen Strawberry Lemon Drop: Blend all ingredients with ice for a slushy cocktail.
Low-Sugar Version: Use stevia or monk fruit instead of simple syrup.
Top Tips for the Perfect Martini
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
Shake well to properly chill and mix ingredients.
Strain the strawberry puree for a smooth, seed-free martini.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less simple syrup to taste.
How to Serve
Serve in chilled martini glasses.
Always rim with sugar for a signature touch.
Garnish with fresh strawberries and lemon slices for a polished presentation.
Storage Instructions
Best enjoyed fresh immediately after shaking.
Strawberry puree can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
The cocktail mixture (without ice) can be prepped ahead and stored in the fridge for a few hours. Shake again before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cocktail without alcohol?
Yes! Replace vodka with sparkling water or lemon soda for a refreshing mocktail.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw them first to blend smoothly.
3. How do I make simple syrup?
Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan, heat until dissolved, and cool before use.
4. Can I make this in advance?
You can make the strawberry puree ahead of time, but for the freshest taste, mix the martini right before serving.
More Recipes
Strawberry Lemon Drop Martini
Ingredients
- 3-4 large fresh strawberries hulled
- 1 ounce fresh lemon juice about 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 ounce simple syrup
- 2 ounces vodka
- Ice for shaking
- Sugar for rim
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
- Blend strawberries with 1-2 tablespoons of water until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove pulp and seeds.
- Set the smooth strawberry puree aside.
Step 2: Rim the Glasses
- Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a martini glass.
- Dip the rim in granulated sugar to coat it evenly.
- Set aside while preparing the cocktail.
Step 3: Mix the Martini
- Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
- Add strawberry puree, vodka, simple syrup, and lemon juice.
- Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well-chilled.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
- Strain the martini into the prepared glasses.
- Garnish with a whole strawberry and a lemon slice.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!