Best 2 Make Ahead Martini Recipes

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Looking for an elegant and sophisticated cocktail to impress your friends at your next gathering? Look no further than the timeless Martini. With its perfect balance of gin and vermouth, this classic cocktail is a true crowd-pleaser. This article presents three variations on the classic Martini recipe, each with its own unique twist. Whether you prefer a traditional Martini, a refreshing Cucumber Martini, or a zesty Lemon Drop Martini, we've got you covered. Get ready to elevate your mixology skills and discover your new favorite Martini recipe.

Let's cook with our recipes!

MAKE-AHEAD MARTINI



Make-Ahead Martini image

Daniel Osborne, the bar manager at Abigail Hall in Portland, Ore., can satisfy orders for gin and vodka martinis and rye and bourbon manhattans in an instant. Each drink is mixed in bulk, diluted and chilled well ahead of time. Advocates of this process say it results in not only quicker service but also a better, colder and more viscous drink. "Dilution and chill are main ingredients" in a martini, Mr. Osborne said. To find out for yourself, you need to plan only a day before cocktail hour. This recipe will yield two drinks. If you wish to have more ready in advance, simply double or triple the measurements.

Provided by Robert Simonson

Categories     cocktails

Yield 2 drinks

Number Of Ingredients 4

5 ounces gin, preferably Beefeater
2 ounces distilled water
1 ounce dry vermouth, preferably Dolin
2 lemon twists or olives

Steps:

  • Combine the gin, distilled water and vermouth in a mixing glass. Using a funnel, transfer the mixture into a glass bottle. Seal the bottle and store in the freezer overnight.
  • When mixture is fully chilled, pour 4 ounces into a chilled cocktail glass. (Because of the presence of water, there is a chance the cocktail will begin to solidify in the freezer. If the drink appears slightly slushy when you remove it from the freezer, give the bottle a slight shake and let it sit for a minute or so before pouring.) Garnish with lemon twist or olive.

Nutrition Facts : @context http, Calories 202, UnsaturatedFat 0 grams, Carbohydrate 1 gram, Fat 0 grams, Fiber 0 grams, Protein 0 grams, SaturatedFat 0 grams, Sodium 27 milligrams, Sugar 0 grams

CRANBERRY MARTINIS



Cranberry Martinis image

Provided by Ina Garten

Categories     beverage

Time P2DT15m

Yield 6 servings

Number Of Ingredients 7

1 cup sugar
1 cup fresh cranberries
6 (1-by-3-inch) strips of orange zest, plus extra for serving (see Cook's Note)
1 (750 milliliter) bottle good vodka, such as Grey Goose
1 cup cranberry juice cocktail, preferably tart
1/4 cup Triple Sec
Ice

Steps:

  • Several days ahead, place the sugar, cranberries, 6 strips of orange zest, and 1 cup of water in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 5 minutes, until the cranberries start to pop open. Pour the vodka into a large pitcher, add the cranberry mixture, and store covered in the refrigerator for at least 2 days and up to 5 days.
  • When ready to serve, strain the vodka mixture, reserving the cranberries and discarding the orange zest. Stir in the cranberry juice cocktail and Triple Sec. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice, add the drink mixture, shake for a full 30 seconds (it's longer than you think!), and strain into martini glasses. Rub the rim of each glass with fresh orange zest, spoon a few cranberries into each glass, and serve ice cold.

Tips:

  • Prep Ahead: Vermouth and gin can be combined up to 5 days before serving. Keep refrigerated.
  • Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  • Garnish Elegantly: Add a classic twist of lemon or go creative with an olive, cocktail onion, or a few drops of orange bitters.
  • Experiment with Ratios: Adjust the gin-to-vermouth ratio to your taste preference. A classic Martini is typically 2:1 gin to vermouth, but some prefer a drier or wetter version.
  • Perfect Glassware: Use chilled martini glasses or coupe glasses for an authentic presentation.
  • Batching for Parties: If making multiple Martinis, scale up the recipe and mix in a large pitcher. Serve over ice and garnish.

Conclusion:

With these recipes and tips, you'll be able to make restaurant-quality Martinis at home that will impress your friends and family. Whether you prefer a classic Dry Martini, a refreshing Vodka Martini, or a delightful Espresso Martini, these recipes have got you covered. So, gather your ingredients, chill your glasses, and embark on a delightful Martini-making journey. Cheers to sophisticated sipping!

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