Lemon Zest Cocktail

Name: Lemon Zest Cocktail
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 servings
Ingredients: 2 oz vodka; 1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice; 0.75 oz simple syrup; Lemon twist for garnish; Superfine sugar for glass rim

🕒 Prep: 5 min

🔥 Cook:

🍽 Serves: 1

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Looking for a refreshing twist on your classic cocktail repertoire? The Lemon Zest Cocktail delivers a bright, citrusy punch that’s perfect for any occasion. It's simple, quick to make, and brings a zesty flair that will have you coming back for more.

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Ingredients for Lemon Zest Cocktail

Vodka: This is the backbone of our cocktail, providing a clean, smooth base that lets the lemon flavor shine. Choose a mid-range vodka you enjoy sipping.

Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is a must for that authentic tangy flavor. It’s the star of the show, so skip the bottled stuff!

Simple Syrup: Balances out the tartness of the lemon with a touch of sweetness. You can easily make this at home by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over heat.

Lemon Twist: Adds a classy touch and a hint of zest aroma each time you take a sip.

Superfine Sugar: Used to rim the glass, adding a subtle sweetness to each sip. It gives that first impression of flavor even before you taste the cocktail.

Tips & Tricks

Use a chilled glass to keep your cocktail cold longer without diluting it with extra ice.
If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a bit more simple syrup to taste.
For a more pronounced citrus flavor, consider adding a dash of lemon bitters.

Serving Suggestions

This cocktail pairs beautifully with light appetizers like shrimp cocktail or a fresh caprese salad. Its bright, citrusy notes also complement seafood dishes wonderfully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use lime juice instead of lemon?: Absolutely! Lime will give the cocktail a different but equally refreshing flavor profile.
What if I don't have superfine sugar?: You can pulse regular granulated sugar in a blender or food processor until it's finer but not powdery.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?: Yes, substitute the vodka with sparkling water or a lemon-flavored soda for a refreshing mocktail.

Lemon Zest Cocktail Recipe Walkthrough

Start by prepping your glass. Grab a lemon slice and gently rub it around the rim of your glass. Then, dip the rim into a small plate of superfine sugar. This adds a sweet touch to your cocktail experience right from the first sip.

Next, take your cocktail shaker and pour in 2 oz of vodka, 1 oz of lemon juice, and 0.75 oz of simple syrup. These are your main players, bringing together the vibrant and refreshing flavors.

Fill the shaker with ice. This is important because you want your cocktail chilled. Shake it vigorously for about 15-20 seconds — this not only chills the drink but also mixes the ingredients thoroughly. You should feel the outside of the shaker become cold.

Now, strain the mixture into your prepared glass. This ensures you have a smooth drink without any ice chunks, just pure cocktail goodness.

For the finishing touch, take a strip of lemon peel and twist it over the glass. This releases essential oils, enriching the cocktail with a fragrant citrus aroma. Drop it into the drink, and you’re ready to enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for impromptu gatherings.
Uses fresh ingredients for a burst of natural flavor.
Simple yet elegant, making it a standout at any party.
Customizable to suit your taste — adjust the sweetness or citrus as needed.

Ingredients

2 oz vodka

1 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice

0.75 oz simple syrup

Lemon twist for garnish

Superfine sugar for glass rim

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Prepare the glass by moistening the rim with a lemon slice and dipping it into a plate of superfine sugar to coat.

2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the vodka, lemon juice, and simple syrup.

3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until well chilled.