Gin and Cucumber Basil Smash
A refreshing cocktail that combines the crispness of cucumber with the aromatic notes of fresh basil, perfect for warm days or evening twists.
Ingredients
For the glass decoration
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar for decorating the glass – optional
Main ingredients
- 8 basil leaves fresh
- 8 slices cucumber about 5mm thick
- 2 tbsp sugar syrup see tips
- 50 ml gin Tanqueray or Hendricks preferred
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Crushed ice
- splash tonic water naturally light Fever Tree is recommended
- Strips of cucumber make with a vegetable peeler
- A few basil leaves to decorate
Instructions
Preparation
- Make a sugar rim on the glass by dipping the rim of the glass in a small bowl of water. Spread the granulated sugar on another plate and dip the rim into the sugar.
- Place the basil leaves and cucumber slices into a cocktail shaker. Muddle them until the scent comes out.
- Add the sugar syrup, gin, lemon juice, and crushed ice to the shaker. Shake it all together vigorously until frost forms on the outside of the shaker.
- Fill your prepared glass with ice and strain the cocktail into the glass.
- Top up your drink with tonic water. Decorate it with strips of cucumber and a few basil leaves.
Notes
Serve this cocktail chilled in the decorated glass. It’s great for summer gatherings or relaxing evenings. Best enjoyed fresh, but can be kept in the refrigerator for a few hours.