Lemon Drop Martini: The August Cocktail

Happy Monday and welcome back to another week with KAYLA & CO. LIVING! I’m excited to roll out a new a monthly series called The Cocktail Calendar, which will feature one cocktail or drink that reminds me of the month and season we are living in. In July, I dropped a recipe for Mimi’s Strawberry Lemonade, so I thought it would only to continue on the lemon trend for the end of August and talk about one of my favorite cocktails: the lemon drop martini. This drink screams summer with its citrus flavors and beautiful sweet and tart blend that reminds you of long, hot summer days that turn into delightful summer nights. For me, it’s the right drink to help transition us from the final days of summer into the early beginnings of fall.

Why the Lemon Drop Martini is Summer in a Glass

A lemon drop martini has been a absolute favorite of mine since the summer of 2019 when I visited New York City with my parents for the very first time. I remember sitting in the hotel bar sipping on one with my dad as we were overlooking Times Square. It genuinely felt like summer in a glass with its crisp tart bite that paired well with the delectable sweetness of the sugar rim with a beautiful citrus blend of the lemon as well as hint of orange that’s light and refreshing. Sip this martini while sitting out on a patio and looking out at the world that’s passing by.

I will always equate a lemon drop martini with that New York trip and my dad who inspired me to try it in the first place. Sipping this martini takes me back to that summer of exploring all that New York had to offer and experiencing the Broadway show Ain’t Too Proud – The Life and Times of The Temptations, my dad’s favorite group. This trip became the catalyst for us to perfect the recipe and have our lemon drop martini anytime throughout the year. Morphing into more than just a summer cocktail, this lemon drop martini recipe has become a staple at our annual Christmas Eve gathering with our long-time neighbors. However, it all started that summer of 2019 and it will always be a highlight for me.

Lemon Drop Martini

Elevate your day with a lemon drop martini. A perfect blend of sweet and tart with a hint of citrus will easily brighten your day! Rather have a mocktail? With one simple swap, you'll have a delicious non-alcoholic take with this lemon drop martini recipe.

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Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 oz Lemon Juice freshly squeezed recommended
• 1.5 oz Vodka
• 1.5 oz Triple Sec
• 1.5 oz Simple Syrup
• Sugar and Lemon Wedge for garnish

Non-Alcoholic Substitutes

• 1.5 tbsp White Grape Juice
• 1.5 tbsp Water
• 1.5 tbsp Orange Juice
• 1.5 tbsp Simple Syrup

Equipment

• Martini Glass
• Cocktail Shaker
• Jigger or Shot Glass

Method

 

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add lemon juice, vodka, triple sec, and simple syrup into shaker.
For non-alcoholic alternative, combine white grape juice and water together to create vodka substitute. Combine orange juice and simple syrup for triple sec substitute.
3. Shake well until all ingredients are mixed (about 20-30 seconds).
4. Pour into sugar-rimmed glass and garnish with a lemon wedge.
To elevate your drink experience, place glass in the freezer at least 5-10 minutes before serving to chill.

Notes

If using this recipe for parties and gatherings, I would recommend freshly squeezing the lemon juice ahead of time to expedite the process. Additionally, cut lemon wedges or slices and set aside in the fridge until ready to garnish your drink.

While the drink will not taste exactly the same, the non-alcoholic version provides an easy alternative for anyone. Be sure to rinse your cocktail shaker in between uses.