A gin tonic is always welcome, but what about a flavored, refreshing version ? Try the cucumber gin and tonic, with fresh cucumber slices and just the right flavor for summer.
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What is Cucumber Gin Tonic?
The cucumber gin tonic is a version of the classic gin tonic, with added fresh cucumber. How you add the cucumber is up to you, but you need to squish the slices a little to get some juice out. The resulting drink will be an improvement on the classic, for some. Since this is a very easy cocktail, let’s see just how to make one.
Cucumber Gin Tonic Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 oz gin
- 3 oz tonic water
- 2-3 cucumber slices
Instructions
- In a shaker combine gin, cucumbers, and ice. Shake well.
- Strain into rocks glass with ice.
- Top with tonic water.
Notes
- Don't overdo the cucumber in this. When you shake it with ice, it will release a lot of juice, so 2-3 slices are enough for one drink. The cucumber should be a secondary aroma.
- If you want to skip the fresh cucumber, there are cucumber flavored tonic waters and I think you can even find gin like that.
- This is only as sweet as your tonic water will be. If you want sweeter, add a drop of simple syrup.
When is this drink best ?
I think the cucumber gin tonic works great as a summer cocktail. It’s refreshing, cooling, and it instantly puts you in a good mood. There’s something in the cucumber note that cuts through the tonic and works with the gin that just screams SPA DAY with a fun twist.
My thoughts on Cucumber Gin Tonic
I liked the cucumber gin tonic, though I personally wish it were a little sweeter. The only sweetness in this is the one from the tonic water and this will depend on the brand you use. The gin and cucumber work great, they’re a perfect mix, and tonic water also goes very well with cucumber.
Overall a very refreshing, bubbly drink with a little bit of bitterness, and a cooling sensation from the cucumber.
In fact there is both cucumber flavored gin, and cucumber flavored tonic water you can use, if you’d rather not use fresh cucumber.
If you like Cucumber Gin Tonic, you might also like…
Cucumber Gin Fizz – a gin sour with club soda and cucumber
Cucumber Collins – a gin Collins with fresh cucumber
Notes, substitutes, and tips
Mixing some cucumber into gin and/or tonic water is always a great idea, though it’s not for everyone. If you don’t like cucumber but still want to try something similar, consider using fresh zucchini, honeydew melon, watermelon, or cantaloupe.
Be mindful of the tonic water you use. Each brand has a slightly different flavor profile, and some may be a bit more spicy or extra bitter. Make sure you use one you like.