Vodka Martini With A Twist Recipe

Out of all the classic cocktails, a martini is maybe one of the most recognizable, and not just because of the striking, angular glass it's served in. According to Food52, one theory of the martini's invention is that it may have come into existence during the Gold Rush in the 1800s, when a man in a town called Martinez received a concoction of gin, vermouth, and bitters from a bartender who didn't have the man's desired Champagne. There are other theories, of course, but what's important is that this potent-yet-minimalist drink is still going strong to this day.

If you're getting tired of paying through the nose at a bar to enjoy a martini or two, you'll be glad to know that making them at home couldn't be easier. Recipe developer Catherine Brookes' take on this time-honored classic pairs vodka (or gin, if that's more your style) with a touch of dry vermouth and an eye-catching lemon twist. "These are great served at a dinner party alongside appetizers or canapes," Brookes says. "Martinis also pair well with many savory foods, such as seafood and chicken." Here's how to bring a touch of martini-based sophistication to your next gathering — even if it's a solo one.

A martini doesn't have many components, so if you're missing anything, it's going to be obvious. Be sure you're prepared by gathering your ingredients ahead of time: vodka, dry vermouth, lemon peel twists, ice, and a cocktail shaker. That's it! There are plenty of vodkas well-suited for martinis out there, but Brookes personally suggests using Smirnoff.

For some people, the first time they saw a martini was when James Bond ordered one "shaken, not stirred" on their TV screen or local movie theater. To this day, debate rages about if a martini tastes best when shaken or stirred. At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference. In Brookes' recipe, the martini gets shaken. "I find that using a cocktail shaker with ice helps to mix the vodka and vermouth more thoroughly, and as this process melts the ice slightly more, the result is a more chilled martini," she says.

Now that you've gathered your ingredients, simply pour the vodka, vermouth, and ice in your cocktail shaker, pop the lid on, and shake vigorously until the mixture gets nice and cold. And if you don't have a cocktail shaker, there are other options you can use, like a mason jar with a lid.

Once your martini is cold and combined, strain it into two martini glasses and add that bright citrus garnish. "Adding a lemon twist makes this drink feel [a] bit more fancy, especially if you're serving [it] to guests!" says Brookes.

Planning a big party? Don't waste time making two martinis at a time all night long. "This can definitely be made ahead. Just store in the fridge until you'd like to serve," she notes.