The Green Garden Cocktail

As summer days grow warmer, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing cocktail to cool down and relax.

The Green Garden Cocktail is a perfect blend of fresh cucumber juice, elderflower liqueur, vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.

This delightful drink is not only vibrant and visually appealing but also a treat for the taste buds.

And for those who prefer a non-alcoholic version, it’s easy to adapt into a mocktail with zero proof alternatives.

Here’s everything you need to know to create this invigorating drink at home.

Green Garden Cocktail Recipe

Makes 2 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber, peeled and diced
• 2-3 tbsp water
• 3 oz vodka or gin
• 2 oz elderflower liqueur
• 2 oz lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 1/2 oz simple syrup (or more to taste)

For garnish:

• Cucumber ribbons
• Chamomile flowers (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumber Juice:

• Add the diced cucumber and water to a blender.
• Blend until the mixture is smooth.
• Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve, discarding the pulp. This should yield fresh cucumber juice, which is the base of your cocktail.

1. Mix the Cocktail:

• Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice.
• Add 4-6 oz of the freshly made cucumber juice, depending on how intense you want the cucumber flavor to be.
• Pour in the vodka (or gin), elderflower liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup.
• Shake well to combine all the ingredients and chill the mixture.

1. Serve:

• Strain the cocktail into two glasses.
• For a decorative touch, use a peeler to create thin strips of a mini cucumber.
• Accordion fold the cucumber strip and place it on a cocktail pick to garnish your drink.
• Add a few chamomile flowers if desired for an extra touch of elegance.

Transforming the Green Garden into a Mocktail

For those who prefer their drinks sans alcohol, the Green Garden Cocktail can easily be transformed into a mocktail without losing its charm.

Ingredients:

• Substitute vodka with a zero-proof alternative like @Ritual Zero Proof.
• Replace elderflower liqueur with elderflower soda or syrup. We recommend @Fever-Tree elderflower tonic water for its delightful flavor.

Instructions:

• Follow the same steps as the original recipe, simply swapping out the alcoholic components with the non-alcoholic substitutes mentioned above.

Tips for the Perfect Green Garden Cocktail

1. Cucumber Selection:

• Use a fresh, firm cucumber to ensure the juice is vibrant and flavorful. English cucumbers are a great option due to their thin skin and fewer seeds.

1. Elderflower Liqueur:

• Elderflower liqueur adds a floral sweetness that complements the cucumber’s freshness. St-Germain is a popular choice for its high quality and excellent taste.

1. Adjusting Sweetness:

• Taste the cocktail mixture before shaking. Adjust the amount of simple syrup to suit your preference. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add a bit more syrup.

1. Lime Juice:

• Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for that bright, tangy kick. Avoid bottled lime juice as it can be too tart and lack the fresh flavor needed for this cocktail.

1. Garnishing:

• Take your time with the garnishes. The cucumber ribbons and chamomile flowers not only add to the visual appeal but also enhance the overall drinking experience.

Enjoying Your Green Garden Cocktail

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, hosting a garden party, or simply enjoying a quiet evening, the Green Garden Cocktail is a versatile drink that suits any occasion.

Its refreshing cucumber base combined with the floral notes of elderflower and the zing of lime makes it a standout choice for summer.

So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and sip on this delightful drink that’s sure to become a favorite in your summer cocktail repertoire.

Cheers!

Credit: @crowdedkitchen