Chartreuse originates from a small town in France. Monks actually first created the bright green herbal infusion as early as the mid-eighteenth century. The recipe (originally used as medicine) has long since been kept a carefully guarded secret. A single monastery in Voiron, France still produces chartreuse. The tonic contains a wide variety of herbs and flowers, giving it a kick that's easily distinguishable from other liqueurs. You certainly can't confuse it by sight - in fact, if you're wondering, the color Chartreuse was named after the liqueur.

How do you make simple syrup?

Combine equal parts water and sugar (we typically use ½ cup of each) in a small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a low simmer and stir until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool before using.

Cucumber Gin Cocktail - Crowded Kitchen

Description

These cucumber gin cocktails have it all - they're tangy, slightly sweet, earthy and refreshing. Best of all, they're definitely different from anything in your normal rotation.

Ingredients

Units Scale

4 oz gin
2 oz Chartreuse
4 oz freshly squeezed lime juice
3 oz simple syrup
4 cups peeled and diced cucumber
1/2 cup water
Ice

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Instructions

Blend cucumber and water in a high speed blender and then strain juice through a fine mesh sieve into a large liquid measuring cup. Press juice through with the back of a spoon.
Squeeze lime juice separately.
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker half filled with ice and shake well for a slow count of 15.
Strain into a glass over ice and garnish with lime & fresh mint (optional). Enjoy!

Notes

The key to this cocktail is the freshly juiced cucumber - don't skip it!

Chartreuse: Chartreuse is a liqueur made from a blend of 130 different plants and flowers, lending it the most stunning, vibrant color and a unique herbal flavor.

Chartreuse substitute: you can sub with another herbal liqueur of choice, like St. Germain (elderflower liqueur). It's a unique flavor profile so there's no perfect substitute, but we've tried this cocktail with both and it's delicious either way. Of course, if you'd prefer a more basic cocktail, you can leave it out altogether.

Make ahead: if you want to serve this cucumber gin cocktail at a dinner party, you can absolutely mix everything together ahead of time. We suggest no longer than 24 hours before serving, as the cucumber and lime juice taste best when freshly prepared. Be sure to shake well again before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Cocktail
Method: Shaker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 drinks
Calories: 159
Sugar: 12.7 g
Sodium: 4.6 mg
Fat: 0.1 g
Carbohydrates: 16.7 g
Fiber: 0.6 g
Protein: 0.8 g