The lemon drop martini was first introduced in the 1970s in San Francisco in a trendy fern bar. Probably named after the lemon drop candy, the martini is generally served in a cocktail glass. Although the mixed drink was fairly popular, it gained popularity in the early 2000s when it was presented on a well-known television show. The sweet and sour drink presents a cheery, bright image that’s just right for a book club, summer evenings, or an afternoon with friends.
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The Classic Recipe
The very best of these lemon cocktails are made with fresh lemons, sugar, and a bottle of vodka. Note that most of the time this drink is made with superfine sugar instead of a simple syrup. However, some modifications to the drink may use a syrup. Other variations of this recipe may call for lemon juice rather than fresh lemons or a bit of orange liqueur added to the mix. A beautiful rim of superfine sugar around the rim of the glass with a twirl of lemon peel finishes off the garnish.
Shake Things Up a Bit
However, there are several fun ways to go beyond the classic appeal of this martini. Some of the most popular variations include additional fruits. Some examples include blueberry, raspberry, watermelon, and pineapple. One recipe even calls for elderflower syrup. Make a gorgeous red drink with the addition of some cranberry-raspberry juice! You need to be careful not to go overboard on your changes, or you may end up with a different drink entirely.
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Another way to add your own bit of flair to these drinks is with the garnish. The twist of peel is classic, but don’t be afraid to use a lemon, lime, or orange wedge. Frost the wedge with some sparkly sugar crystals for a really nice touch. If you’re mixing up one of the variations of a lemon martini, consider garnishing the drink with the appropriate fruit. A toothpick with a couple of blueberries or raspberries adds a beautiful bit of interest to the drink. A maraschino cherry may give the martini a bit of blush and some additional sweetness. A stick of rock candy, a frozen strawberry, an edible flower, or a couple of mint leaves can boost the visual presentation of this favorite cocktail.
Pair It With…
The distinctive flavor of this cocktail shouldn’t be overwhelmed by the food you’re serving as snacks or meals. Consider pairing the drink with fresh berries and chocolate, ice cream and brownies, almond cookies, or a light fruit salad. If you don’t want to go with something sweet, consider a shrimp cocktail, tapenade with French bread, or bruschetta. You could also do a mix of sweet and savory snacks. If you’re planning to serve the cocktails to several guests, a table full of options is a great idea. Just keep any variations to your lemon drop martini recipe in mind.
The lemon drop cocktail is a cheerful drink that can be served any time of the day all year round. When you’re in the mood for a drink that is easy to make and may also lift your mood, the lemon drop is a perfect choice.
