As the warm weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like sipping on a cool and refreshing cocktail to beat the heat. Among our favorites are the classic vodka gimmelts, which get a summery twist with the addition of fresh fruits, herbs, and spices. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 unique vodka gimlet recipes that are perfect for your summer gatherings and BBQs.
From classic combinations like lime juice and mint to more adventurous flavors like strawberry and balsamic, these gimmelts are sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a pool party or just want a refreshing drink to enjoy by the beach, we’ve got you covered with these 18 vodka gimlet recipes that are perfect for summer.
Classic Vodka Gimlet with Fresh Lime Juice
A timeless cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is sophisticated, this Classic Vodka Gimlet with Fresh Lime Juice is a must-have for any occasion. With the perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors, this drink is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Elderflower Vodka Gimlet with a Twist of Mint
This refreshing twist on the classic gimlet combines the subtle sweetness of elderflower liqueur with the brightness of mint, perfectly balanced by the crispness of vodka and lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Elderflower-infused vodka (or regular vodka with a splash of elderflower liqueur)
– 1/2 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz Mint syrup (see note)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh mint leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the elderflower-infused vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and mint syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None
Cucumber Vodka Gimlet for a Cool Refreshment
Beat the heat with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet cocktail. The cucumber adds a light and crisp flavor that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced cucumber
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add the sliced cucumber to the shaker and muddle gently with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release its flavors and oils.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, just mix and enjoy!
Spicy Jalapeño Vodka Gimlet with a Lime Garnish
This Spicy Jalapeño Vodka Gimlet is a twist on the classic cocktail, adding a spicy kick from jalapeños and a touch of citrus from lime. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their drinks.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz jalapeño simple syrup (see note)
– 3-4 dashes of cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and jalapeño simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge, cut into a thin slice or wheel.
Note: To make jalapeño simple syrup, combine 1 cup water with 1 cup sugar and 2-3 sliced jalapeños in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and let cool before using.
Raspberry Vodka Gimlet with a Hint of Basil
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet. This sweet and tangy drink combines the flavors of raspberries, vodka, lime, and basil for a unique and delicious experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz raspberry vodka
– 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup raspberries, pureed
– 1/4 cup basil leaves, torn
– Ice cubes
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the raspberry vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Add the pureed raspberries and torn basil leaves to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None (simply mix and serve)
Ginger Vodka Gimlet with a Zesty Kick
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet, featuring spicy ginger and a zesty kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka (ginger-infused or regular)
– 3/4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz honey syrup (1:1 honey and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz ginger liqueur (such as Domaine Canton)
– Splash of soda water
– Lime wheel and fresh mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, honey syrup, and ginger liqueur.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in mere minutes.
Blood Orange Vodka Gimlet for a Citrusy Delight
This refreshing cocktail combines the bold flavors of blood orange and vodka with a hint of lime, perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a citrusy pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Blood Orange Vodka
– 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice
– 1/2 oz Simple Syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 3 oz Sparkling Water
– Slices of blood orange for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with sparkling water.
6. Garnish with slices of blood orange.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your Blood Orange Vodka Gimlet, a perfect blend of citrusy flavors and refreshing fizz.
Lavender Vodka Gimlet with a Touch of Honey
Escape to the French countryside with this unique and refreshing cocktail, featuring the subtle flavors of lavender and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka infused with dried lavender buds (see note)
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and hot water, dissolved)
– 3-4 drops edible lavender extract (optional)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the lavender vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and honey syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 10-12 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of dried lavender, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Note: To infuse vodka with lavender, combine 1 cup dried lavender buds with 1 bottle vodka in an airtight container. Steep for at least 2 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain the vodka before using.
Pineapple Vodka Gimlet for a Tropical Vibe
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing Pineapple Vodka Gimlet, perfect for a tropical vibe.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz pineapple-infused vodka
– 1 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup
– 1/2 oz club soda
– Splash of grenadine (optional)
– Ice
– Fresh pineapple wedges and mint leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the pineapple-infused vodka, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with club soda and add a splash of grenadine, if desired.
6. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and mint leaves.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Blueberry Vodka Gimlet with a Splash of Soda
This refreshing twist on the classic gimlet combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of lime and a hint of vodka. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz blueberry vodka
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– Splash of soda water
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the blueberry vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Muddle the blueberries gently with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavors.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of soda water.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just mix and serve!)
Peach Vodka Gimlet with a Rosemary Infusion
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet, featuring sweet peaches and herbaceous rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz peach vodka
– 1 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup fresh peaches, pureed
– 1 sprig of rosemary, plus additional leaves for garnish
– Lime wheel, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine rosemary sprig and 1 oz water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Strain the infusion into a clean glass bottle.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add peach vodka, lime juice, simple syrup, and pureed peaches.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-12 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Garnish with additional rosemary leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: None
Strawberry Vodka Gimlet with a Balsamic Drizzle
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet, featuring sweet strawberries and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz strawberry vodka
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
• 1/2 cup hulled and sliced strawberries
• Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
• Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade), for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Rim a cocktail glass with salt, if desired.
2. In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with sliced strawberries.
6. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the cocktail.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just shake and serve.
Enjoy your Strawberry Vodka Gimlet with a Balsamic Drizzle!
Vanilla Vodka Gimlet with a Cinnamon Rim
A twist on the classic gimlet cocktail, this recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of vanilla and a splash of citrus. Perfect for a cozy night in or a sophisticated gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz Vanilla vodka
– 3/4 oz Freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz Simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Cinnamon sticks, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a chilled cocktail glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vanilla vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Simply mix and serve.
Lychee Vodka Gimlet for an Exotic Twist
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces lychee-flavored vodka
– 4 ounces lime juice
– 1 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 ounce passionfruit puree
– Splash of club soda
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the lychee vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Add a splash of passionfruit puree, creating a swirly pattern on the surface of the drink.
6. Top with a splash of club soda.
7. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve in just minutes.
Coconut Vodka Gimlet with a Lime Zest Finish
Elevate your classic gimlet game with the creamy richness of coconut and a burst of citrusy freshness from lime zest. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a tropical escape.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz coconut vodka
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Lime zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add coconut vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Top with heavy cream and gently stir to create a layered effect.
6. Express a strip of lime zest over the drink and use as garnish.
Cooking Time: None
Blackberry Vodka Gimlet with a Mint Leaf Garnish
A twist on the classic gimlet, this refreshing cocktail combines the sweetness of blackberries with the tanginess of lime and vodka. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a cool and sophisticated drink.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/4 cup blackberry puree or 2-3 fresh blackberries, muddled
– Lime wheel, for garnish
– Fresh mint leaf, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
3. Muddle blackberry puree or add fresh blackberries to the shaker.
4. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel and a sprig of fresh mint.
Cooking Time: None
Passionfruit Vodka Gimlet for a Sweet and Tangy Mix
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet, featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of passionfruit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 oz passionfruit puree or syrup (see note)
– 3/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a chilled martini glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lime juice, passionfruit puree or syrup, and simple syrup.
3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This is a quick-mix cocktail that’s ready to serve in just a few minutes.
Honeydew Vodka Gimlet with a Hint of Basil
Elevate your cocktail game with this refreshing twist on the classic gimlet, featuring sweet honeydew melon and the bright flavor of basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup honeydew melon puree
– 1/4 cup basil leaves
– Salt, for rimming glass
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rim a rocks glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup. Fill with ice and shake until chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
4. Add honeydew melon puree and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a basil leaf and a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Get ready to beat the heat this summer with these 18 refreshing vodka gimlet recipes! From classic flavors like lime and mint, to unique twists like elderflower and ginger, there’s a recipe for everyone. Try adding a spicy kick with jalapeño, or sweeten things up with raspberry and basil. With flavors ranging from tropical pineapple to exotic lychee, you’ll find the perfect gimlet to quench your thirst. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just need a cool drink for a hot day, these vodka gimlet recipes are sure to please.
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