Pickle Martini Cocktail Recipe

Pickles are not just for sandwiches! We’re sharing our favorite Pickle Martini recipe that’s a savory cocktail with a unique flavor combination. 

Made of extra dry white vermouth, vodka, and pickles (the star of the show), the Pickle Martini Cocktail will blow your mind!

It’s not for the faint of heart. But when done right, the Pickle Martini features a very nice balance of flavors.

The vermouth adds a touch of bitterness while the pickle juice brings the saltiness and aromatics, all tied up with a kick from the vodka.

The martini is one of the most iconic cocktails.

It consists of gin or vodka, dry white vermouth, and a lemon peel or a couple of olives for garnish.

There are many takes such as the Martini fiero (with the addition of tonic water), Martini spritz (with bubbles), or even Martini espresso (for a pick-me-up).

Some prefer gin for its botanical taste while others prefer vodka for a smoother taste. Both are considered equally classic options.

Martinis are usually served without ice and reach the desired temperature by chilling the glass beforehand and adding ice to a cocktail shaker.

Whether you shake or stir the ice, is a debate.

Some experts call for stirring instead of shaking, especially if using gin (since shaking will lose some of the aromatics).

However, to achieve the perfect chill for a Pickle Martini, it needs to be well shaken with ice in a cocktail shaker.

Vodka — instead of gin. We find that vodka pairs better with the pickle flavor instead of gin. But you may use gin if you prefer it over vodka.

Extra dry white vermouth —  We opted for Martini & Rossi® Extra Dry for the botanical flavors and bit of bitterness.

Pickle juice — Choose high-quality dill pickles. The higher the quality, the better the cocktail (since this is the main ingredient). Dill pickles have a saltier brine that is perfect for this cocktail. So avoid using sweet pickles.

Pickles — One for muddling and extracting the pickle flavors and one for garnish.

Ice — To be shaken in the shaker to chill the cocktail. Since it won’t be served in the glass, it’s best to drink the Pickle Martini immediately.

Pickle Martini Variations

— Try a dilly bean martini! With a green bean garnish, I use this recipe for Pickled Green Beans.

— If vodka isn’t available, substitute gin.

— Instead of garlic dill pickles, use spicy hot pickles.

 

Jigger — To measure the amount of pour of each liquid.

Muddler — To extract the pickle flavor

Optional: Cocktail measuring cup — To muddle the pickle. You can also use a cocktail shaker, cup or glass instead.

Fine mesh strainer — To ensure you have the smoothest cocktail.

Martini glass — The iconic V-shaped glass. Place in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to ensure the cocktail stays chilled longer once served.

Potato peeler — To create the thin strips of pickle garnish.

Optional: Cocktail picks 

If you love martinis, check out our other easy martini recipes — 

• Espresso Martini with Baileys: For coffee lovers!
• Martini Royale: A sweet and sour spritz.
• Martini Fiero Recipe: A blend of white wine, citrus fruits, floral and bittersweet zesty orange.
• Italian Martini Spritz: A bubbly drink.
• Mojito Pitcher Recipe: Perfect refreshing and aromatic cocktail.
• Frozen Cookies and Cream Polka Dot Martini Recipe: It’s just as delicious as it is cute.

Don’t forget to share your Pickle Martini with us on Instagram using the hashtag #sugarandclothloves. We always love seeing all of your creations! Looking for more quick and delicious recipes? Find them all right here with a few snack ideas to go along with them.

Please note that we may earn a commission for some of the above affiliate links. However, products featured are independently selected and personally well-loved by us!