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Refreshing Cucumber Basil Gimlet with Zesty Green Rim

cucumber basil gimlet - featured image
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A refreshing and light cucumber basil gimlet cocktail with a zesty green salt rim that adds a tangy kick, perfect for warm weather and easy to prepare in under 10 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ounces (60 ml) gin (preferably London dry gin like Tanqueray)
  • 1 ounce (30 ml) fresh lime juice, freshly squeezed
  • 4 thin cucumber slices, peeled if skin is waxy or thick
  • 6–8 fresh basil leaves, gently torn
  • 0.5 ounce (15 ml) simple syrup (homemade or store-bought)
  • Ice cubes as needed
  • For the zesty green rim:
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest
  • Pinch of chili powder or cayenne (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the zesty green rim: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt, 1 teaspoon fresh lime zest, and a pinch of chili powder. Mix well and set aside.
  2. Rim your glass: Run a lime wedge around the rim of a chilled coupe or martini glass. Dip the rim into the zesty green salt mixture, twisting gently to coat evenly. Set the glass aside to let the rim set.
  3. Muddle the fresh ingredients: In your cocktail shaker, add 4 thin cucumber slices and 6-8 torn basil leaves. Gently muddle for about 15 seconds to release juices and oils without pulverizing.
  4. Add liquids and ice: Pour in 2 ounces gin, 1 ounce fresh lime juice, and 0.5 ounce simple syrup. Fill the shaker halfway with ice cubes.
  5. Shake vigorously: Seal the shaker and shake for 15-20 seconds until the outside frosts and the mixture chills.
  6. Strain the cocktail: Using a fine mesh strainer if available, pour the drink into your prepared glass to remove bits of cucumber or basil for a silky finish.
  7. Garnish and serve: Garnish with a thin cucumber wheel or a single basil leaf floating on top. Serve immediately.

Notes

Avoid over-muddling basil to prevent bitterness. Use fresh lime juice for best flavor. Shake with plenty of ice to chill properly without diluting. Double strain for a smoother texture. Rim the glass just before serving for best adherence and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber basil gimlet, refreshing cocktail, gin cocktail, summer drink, zesty rim, basil cocktail, easy cocktail recipe

Find it online: https://lemonydrinks.com/refreshing-cucumber-basil-gimlet-recipe-with-zesty-green-rim-guide/