Apparently I have been in the mood for refreshing cocktails lately. Last week I tried to talk you all into white wine spritzers and today I'm all about cucumber and mint and gin! I was first introduced to gimlets through Julie and Julia
. I liked the book and loved the movie. (I adore Meryl Streep as Juila Child.) The protagonist of that story, Julie, is often drinking gimlets. So, naturally, I had to look that up and give it a try.
A gimlet is usually made with gin and lime, but you can add other flavors too. Or if you don't have/don't like gin you can substitute vodka for a vodka gimlet. I am a sucker for anything citrus so I enjoy a gimlet now and again, it's kind of like my favorite drink of all time—a Sidecar. But let's focus on the Cucumber and Mint gimlets for a second.
First we need to make some mint simple syrup. To do this simply boil equal parts water and sugar and add 3-4 sprigs of mint (stems and all is fine). Stir constantly to dissolve the sugar and allow it to boil for 4-5 minutes so it reduces a little. Strain out the mint and store your syrup in a jar in the refrigerator. I know it's a bit of work but you can use this syrup in all sorts of things: hot tea, lemonade or mojitos.
Cucumber and Mint Gimlets, makes two servings.
Needed: 1/2 cup gin, 2 cups cucumber water*, 2 limes, 3 tablespoons mint simple syrup, ice, and sliced cucumber for garnish.
*To make cucumber water simply fill a small pitcher with water and add 1-2 large sliced cucumbers. Allow this to soak for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. In a shaker or a mason jar, combine the gin, cucumber water, juice from 1 lime, and syrup and shake well. Pour into two glasses filled with ice. Garnish with sliced cucumber and a lime wedge.
Feel free to adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less syrup. Also, if your not a alcohol drinker don't worry! We have a few non alcoholic beverages coming your way soon. We got you covered. :) xo. Emma
This sounds yummy. I would substitute the gin for green tea, though, (as I don't drink), for a nice non-alcoholic alternative that's still delicious and refreshing. - thanks for the idea.
- tianna :)
Posted by: tianna @ Suffocated Bliss | August 29, 2012 at 10:08 AM
tianna- Love that idea! I think that sounds like a great mocktail option. :)
Posted by: Emma | August 29, 2012 at 10:11 AM
Wow what a great idea! I love your drinks :))
Posted by: Diana | August 29, 2012 at 10:18 AM
Hendricks Gin is my favourite in the world :) - Perfect just with lime, soda and LOOOOTS of ice. Loving the idea of making mint simple syrup. Will definitely try!
x
Posted by: Toni | August 29, 2012 at 10:21 AM
Yummy! Love this.
Posted by: Margherita | August 29, 2012 at 10:30 AM
It sound pretty good. Love everything citrus :-)
http://www.stainsofpaint.blogspot.com/
Posted by: Viveca Johansen | August 29, 2012 at 10:39 AM
those are gorgeous! and i love your bronze nail polish. what color is that?
xo,
Morgan
seemomogo.blogspot.com
Posted by: Morgan | August 29, 2012 at 10:41 AM
Great! I'm waiting for these non-alcohol cocktails with anticipation! :)
http://inwhirlofinspiration.blogspot.com
Posted by: call me debbie | August 29, 2012 at 10:41 AM
I must show this to my friend Oscar, he loves gin!
http://mykitschworld.blogspot.com.es
Posted by: itziar | August 29, 2012 at 10:44 AM
This might be my dream drink.
Posted by: Emily D, | August 29, 2012 at 10:51 AM
I'm going to do this recipe! I love mint ^^ Thanks a lot for sharing xx
Posted by: Lau | August 29, 2012 at 10:52 AM
Don't really like gin but it looks delicious, maybe I'll give it a try ;)
www.creativityandchocolate.blogspot.com
Posted by: Eva | August 29, 2012 at 10:59 AM
Yum! Still some summer left! Perfect for a long hot day. Even the pics are refreshing!!
mintclothingcompany.blogspot.com
Xx
Posted by: Jess | August 29, 2012 at 11:13 AM
I would try that:)
www.secret-garden-anita.blogspot.com
Posted by: Secret Garden | August 29, 2012 at 11:17 AM
cool idea!
xx
www.ireneccloset.com
Posted by: Irene's Closet | August 29, 2012 at 11:23 AM
Now I want to leave my shop to get supplies to drink all afternoon. :)
Posted by: kate G. | August 29, 2012 at 11:28 AM
Julie and Julia is such a good movie! want to try this so badly, looks so delicious! Too bad i don't have any gin at the moment.
http://bravebrunette.blogspot.com
Posted by: Lara | August 29, 2012 at 11:46 AM
this sounds amazing! I love vodka gimlets when I am out, but a good old fashioned one with mint and cucumbers? YES PLEASE! Can't wait to try it!
Posted by: Ani | August 29, 2012 at 11:56 AM
Sounds delicious, I'm a big fan of citrus cocktails! I love the jars you've served them in too, so pretty :)
Faye x
Posted by: Faye | August 29, 2012 at 12:07 PM
they look so yummy!
www.petiteandhungry.blogspot.com
Posted by: Petite and Hungry | August 29, 2012 at 12:27 PM