The martini, steeped in elegance and sophistication, has long been associated with an air of refinement. The pickle martini, on the other hand, refuses to take itself too seriously.
Traditionally crafted with gin or vodka and a touch of vermouth, the martini has evolved over the years, spawning numerous riffs on the original recipe. One of the most famous spin-offs is the dirty martini, which uses the salty brine from a jar of olives. From there, it’s a short leap to pickle juice. With its sharp and salty character, the pickle juice martini offers a refreshing twist on the more subdued traditional martini.
What types of pickles work for pickle martinis?
There’s no wrong answer to the question of which pickle works best for a “pickletini.” As I wander through the grocery store, I’m always stunned by how many types of pickles are available! Dill is the go-to pickle for most folks. They provide a robust, tangy and slightly salty flavor with a hint of garlic and dill, which beautifully complements the gin or vodka. Kosher dills lean into the garlic flavors. Looking for some heat? Pick up a jar of hot and spicy pickles infused with peppers and spices for a pickle martini with a kick. Bread-and-butters would be sweet and tangy and a very daring choice.
It’s all about which pickles you prefer. Not sure where to start? Experiment with the pickle brands we can’t get enough of.
Pickle Martini Ingredients
- Vodka or gin: The choice between vodka and gin significantly impacts the flavor. Vodka offers a cleaner, more neutral base that allows the pickle juice to shine, while gin adds botanical complexity to the mix.
- Dill pickle juice: Applause for the star of the show! Dill pickle juice is salty and tangy. Adjust the amount used to find your perfect pickletini balance.
- Dry vermouth: A staple in any martini, dry vermouth adds a layer of aromatic depth. If you want to use less, pour a bit in your chilled martini glass and swirl. Pour out any extra vermouth so only the wash on the glass remains.
- Dill pickle spear: Garnish your cocktail with an actual pickle on a toothpick or cocktail spike. I like cornichons for this job, too.
Directions
Step 1: Shake the martini ingredients
Fill a shaker three-fourths full with ice. Add vodka or gin, pickle brine, and vermouth. Cover and shake until condensation forms on the outside of the shaker.
Step 2: Strain and garnish
Use a Hawthorne strainer to pour the drink into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a pickle.
Recipe Variations
- Top with soda for a pickle spritz: Serve the pickle martini over ice and top with club soda in a highball glass. This version is more approachable for people who want something with a lower ABV and less pickle flavor. It’s refreshing on a hot day.
- Use homemade pickles: If you feel ambitious, make your own pickles to create a personal flavor profile.
- Garnish with other pickles: You can pickle more than cucumbers. Try other pickled vegetables like carrots or even pickled fruit like strawberries.
Can you make pickle martinis ahead of time?
Martinis are best fresh from the shaker, but it’s easy enough to make a batch of your ingredients (using the same ratio that’s in this recipe) before your guests arrive. Keep the mixture cool in the refrigerator. Then, all you need to do is shake them one or two at a time as people arrive.
Pickle Martini Tips
What type of glass should you use for a pickle martini?
Use any type of cocktail glass you want as long as it’s cold. From a triangle martini glass circa 1985 to a vintage coupe or Mason jar, any vessel is fit to hold this cocktail.
What can you serve with a pickle martini?
How about the best cheeseburger ever, tangy potato salad or barbecue recipes? Pickle juice is rumored to be a hangover cure, so maybe a pickle martini is your next signature brunch cocktail. Egg casseroles and other savory brunch dishes would be a creative pairing.
