Summer is here and it’s time to cool down with some delicious and refreshing vodka drinks! As the temperatures rise, there’s nothing better than sipping on a chilled cocktail that combines the crispness of vodka with the sweetness of summer. From classic martinis to fruity punches, we’ve got you covered with 18 refreshing vodka drink recipes perfect for the season.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some old favorites and introducing some new twists to get your summer party started. Whether you’re a vodka connoisseur or just looking for something new to try, these recipes are sure to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds.
So grab a glass, add some ice, and let’s dive into the world of refreshing vodka drinks!
Classic Vodka Martini
Experience the timeless elegance of a well-crafted martini with this classic vodka martini recipe. A delicate balance of crisp vodka and tangy vermouth, garnished with a lemon twist, makes for a sophisticated cocktail perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce dry vermouth
– Lemon twist or olive (for garnish)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour the vodka and vermouth over the ice.
3. Stir the mixture for approximately 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the liquids.
4. Strain the martini into a chilled glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive.
Cooking Time: None
Moscow Mule
This refreshing cocktail is a perfect blend of spicy ginger beer and smooth vodka, served in a copper mug to bring out its unique flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka (such as Moscow Standard or Grey Goose)
– 4 ounces ginger beer (such as Gosling’s or Fentimans)
– Juice of 1 lime
– Ice
– Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a copper mug with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and ginger beer.
3. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and drop it in.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready to serve!)
Bloody Mary
Elevate your brunch game with this spicy twist on the classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce tomato juice
– 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup Clamato juice
– 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Ice
– Lime wedges, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Espresso Martini
Experience the perfect blend of coffee, vodka, and sweetness with this refreshing Espresso Martini recipe. This classic cocktail is a staple for any coffee lover or party enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz Kahlúa
– 1/2 oz freshly brewed espresso
– 1 tablespoon sugar syrup (or to taste)
– 1/2 cup ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, Kahlúa, and espresso to the shaker.
3. Add sugar syrup to taste (optional).
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
6. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds.
Cooking Time: None
Tips:
– Use freshly brewed espresso for the best flavor.
– Adjust sugar syrup to your taste, as some people prefer it sweeter than others.
– Experiment with different types of vodka or liqueurs to find your favorite combination.
Vodka Soda with Lime
This classic cocktail is a staple for any occasion, and adding a squeeze of lime takes it to the next level. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a crisp and revitalizing drink that’s perfect for hot summer days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 ounces vodka
• 4-6 ounces soda water
• Juice of 1/2 lime (about 1 tablespoon)
• Lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka.
3. Top with soda water, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
4. Squeeze in the lime juice and stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This drink is ready in minutes.
Cranberry Vodka Cocktail
A refreshing twist on a classic vodka cocktail, this Cranberry Vodka Cocktail combines the tartness of cranberries with the smoothness of vodka and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 1/2 oz triple sec
– 1/2 oz cranberry juice
– 1/4 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Splash of lime juice
– Ice
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients (about 10-15 seconds).
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Squeeze a splash of lime juice into the cocktail.
6. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a cocktail recipe!
Screwdriver
A classic cocktail that’s as refreshing as it is straightforward, the Screwdriver is a simple yet satisfying drink perfect for any occasion. Made with just two ingredients, this recipe requires minimal effort and yields maximum results.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces orange juice
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the orange juice.
3. Add the vodka.
4. Stir briefly to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None (just mix and serve!)
Black Russian
The Black Russian is a timeless cocktail that combines the richness of coffee liqueur with the smoothness of vodka, making it a perfect drink for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 4 ounces coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grinds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and coffee liqueur.
3. Stir briefly to combine.
4. Garnish with coffee beans or grinds, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready to serve immediately.
Enjoy your Black Russian!
White Russian
A classic cocktail that’s perfect for a sophisticated evening. The White Russian combines the smoothness of vodka with the richness of coffee liqueur, topped off with a creamy float of heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 4 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– 1/2 oz heavy cream
– Ice
– Coffee beans or grated nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Pour in the vodka and coffee liqueur.
3. Stir for about 30 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
5. Top with heavy cream, allowing it to float on top of the liquid.
6. Garnish with coffee beans or grated nutmeg, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Vodka Tonic
A classic and refreshing cocktail perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 ounces vodka (your preferred brand)
• 4-6 ounces tonic water
• Lime wedge, for garnish
• Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Fill a highball glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the vodka.
3. Top with tonic water. The ratio is up to you, but typically 4-6 ounces of tonic is preferred.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in.
Cooking Time: None! Just mix and enjoy!
Lemon Drop Martini
Brighten up your cocktail hour with this tangy and sweet classic: the Lemon Drop Martini. A perfect blend of citrus and sweetness, this refreshing drink is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 ounces vodka
– 1 ounce lemon-flavored liqueur (such as Triple Sec or Cointreau)
– 1/2 ounce simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt for rimming glass
Instructions:
1. Rim a martini glass with salt.
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine vodka, lemon-flavored liqueur, and simple syrup.
3. Add lemon juice and fill shaker with ice.
4. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill ingredients.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared martini glass.
6. Garnish with a lemon twist or wheel, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake and serve.
Sea Breeze
Beat the heat with this classic cocktail that combines the sweetness of citrus and the crispness of mint. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick pick-me-up anytime!
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Gin
– 1 oz Freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 1/2 oz Cranberry juice
– 1/2 oz Lime juice
– 1/4 oz Simple syrup (optional)
– Handful of ice
– Lime wheel and fresh mint sprig for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, grapefruit juice, cranberry juice, and lime juice to the shaker.
3. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice (optional: add simple syrup if desired).
5. Garnish with a lime wheel and fresh mint sprig.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Cosmopolitan
Elevate your cocktail game with this classic Cosmopolitan recipe, featuring the perfect blend of sweet and sour flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 3/4 ounce triple sec
– 1/2 ounce cranberry juice
– 1/2 ounce lime juice
– Lime wheel (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and lime juice to the shaker.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass or coupe.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Enjoy your delicious Cosmopolitan!
Vodka Gimlet
A classic cocktail that’s perfect for warm weather, this Vodka Gimlet recipe combines the crispness of vodka with the tanginess of lime and the sweetness of simple syrup. A refreshing twist on the traditional gin-based gimlet.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 oz vodka
– 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
– 1/2 oz simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Lime wheel, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.
Cooking Time: None, this cocktail is ready to serve!
Cucumber Vodka Cooler
Beat the heat with this refreshing Cucumber Vodka Cooler, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a relaxing evening at home. This easy-to-make cocktail combines the crispness of cucumber with the coolness of vodka and a hint of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces vodka
– 1/2 ounce fresh lime juice
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sliced cucumber and lime for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle the diced cucumber with the vodka and lime juice.
2. Add the simple syrup and fill the shaker with ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with sliced cucumber and a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mixed drink!
Peach Vodka Punch
Get ready to beat the heat with this sweet and tangy peach vodka punch, perfect for your next outdoor gathering or summer bash.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups peaches, diced
– 1 cup peach puree
– 1/2 cup vodka (peach-flavored or regular)
– 1 cup lemon-lime soda
– 1/4 cup simple syrup (equal parts water and granulated sugar, dissolved)
– Sliced peaches for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine diced peaches, peach puree, and vodka. Stir until well combined.
2. Add lemon-lime soda and simple syrup to the pitcher. Stir gently to combine.
3. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve the punch over ice in glasses or a large serving bowl. Garnish with sliced peaches, if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)
Spicy Vodka Lemonade
This refreshing twist on classic lemonade adds a spicy kick from jalapeño peppers and a touch of vodka for a grown-up take on a summer favorite. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a unique party drink.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh lemon juice
– 1 cup simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, dissolved)
– 1/2 cup vodka
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cups ice
– Lemon slices and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine lemon juice and simple syrup. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Add chopped jalapeño and vodka to the pitcher. Stir well.
3. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Blue Lagoon Cocktail
Escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing Blue Lagoon cocktail, featuring the sweet and tangy combination of blue curaçao and coconut rum.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 ounces coconut rum
– 3/4 ounce blue curaçao
– 1/2 ounce pineapple juice
– Splash of lemon-lime soda
– Ice
– Pineapple wedges and cherry halves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add coconut rum, blue curaçao, and pineapple juice.
3. Shake gently to combine and chill the ingredients.
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
5. Top with a splash of lemon-lime soda.
6. Garnish with pineapple wedges and cherry halves, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cocktail is ready in just a few minutes.
Summary
Stay cool this summer with these 18 refreshing vodka drink recipes! From classic cocktails to fruity twists, we’ve got you covered. Try a Classic Vodka Martini for a sophisticated sipper, or go bold with the Moscow Mule and its spicy kick. Other highlights include the Bloody Mary’s savory flavor, the Espresso Martini’s caffeine boost, and the Sea Breeze’s tropical vibes. With so many options, you’re sure to find your new summer favorite.
