📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Gin
Alcohol 25%
Calories 180 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 7g
Prep time 3 minutes
Ever dreamed of crafting the perfect Cucumber Aviation cocktail or savoring a refreshing drink? This article will guide you through the history, flavor, and recipe of this delightful cocktail. Join us as we explore the captivating world of the Cucumber Aviation. Ready to dive in? ⬇️
History
The Cucumber Aviation cocktail was first created in the early 20th century. It was inspired by the classic Aviation cocktail, which originated in New York City. The addition of cucumber gives it a modern twist and a refreshing taste.
- The name “Aviation” comes from the cocktail’s sky-blue color, originally achieved with crème de violette.
- The original Aviation cocktail was created by Hugo Ensslin, a bartender at the Hotel Wallick in New York.
- The Cucumber Aviation adds a fresh cucumber flavor to the traditional recipe.
The taste of a Cucumber Aviation?
The Cucumber Aviation tastes refreshing, with a hint of floral sweetness and a crisp, clean finish. The cucumber adds a cool, invigorating touch that makes it perfect for warm days.
I personally love drinking Cucumber Aviations because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Cucumber Aviation
- The Cucumber Aviation is a variation of the classic Aviation cocktail, which dates back to the early 1900s.
- Cucumber adds a modern twist and a refreshing flavor to the traditional recipe.
- This cocktail is often garnished with a cucumber slice or ribbon for added elegance.
Ingredients 📃
- Gin: 2 oz (60ml)
- Fresh cucumber juice: 1 oz (30ml)
- Lemon juice: 0.75 oz (22.5ml)
- Maraschino liqueur: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Simple syrup: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Crème de violette: 0.25 oz (7.5ml)
- Ice: As needed
A Cucumber Aviation is best served in a **coupe glass** because its wide bowl enhances the drink’s aroma. Alternatively, a **martini glass** can also be used for a sophisticated presentation.
Recipe. How to make Cucumber Aviation 🍹
- Fill a cocktail shaker with *ice*.
- Add *2 oz (60ml) gin*, *1 oz (30ml) fresh cucumber juice*, *0.75 oz (22.5ml) lemon juice*, *0.5 oz (15ml) maraschino liqueur*, *0.5 oz (15ml) simple syrup*, and *0.25 oz (7.5ml) crème de violette* to the shaker.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled **coupe glass**.
- Garnish with a cucumber slice or ribbon.
The Cucumber Aviation is refreshing but can be high in sugar due to the simple syrup and maraschino liqueur. For a healthier option, use natural sweeteners or reduce the sugar content and enjoy the fresh benefits of cucumber and lemon juice.
Food Pairings
Certain foods complement the flavors of a Cucumber Aviation, enhancing your drinking experience.
Smoked Salmon
The smokiness of salmon pairs beautifully with the refreshing cucumber and floral notes of the cocktail.
Sushi
The clean, crisp flavors of sushi harmonize with the fresh cucumber and citrus elements of the drink.
Goat Cheese Salad
The tangy, creamy goat cheese balances the sweetness and acidity of the Cucumber Aviation.
I really enjoy the taste of Cucumber Aviations—the cool cucumber and zesty lemon make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- *Use fresh cucumber juice* for the best flavor.
- *Chill your glass* before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer.
- *Shake vigorously* to ensure all ingredients are well-mixed and chilled.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Cucumber Aviation, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Cucumber Aviation
- Gin: Can be replaced with vodka for a smoother taste.
- Simple syrup: Use agave syrup for a natural sweetener.
- Crème de violette: Omit for a less floral flavor.
Cucumber Aviation Variations
Spicy Cucumber Aviation
- Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño.
- Recipe: Shake jalapeño with other ingredients for a spicy kick.
Herbal Cucumber Aviation
- Ingredients: Add a few basil leaves.
- Recipe: Muddle basil with cucumber juice before shaking.
Berry Cucumber Aviation
- Ingredients: Add a handful of fresh berries.
- Recipe: Shake berries with other ingredients for a fruity twist.
For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the gin and maraschino liqueur with sparkling water and a splash of elderflower syrup. Garnish with cucumber for a refreshing mocktail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a Cucumber Aviation ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and store it in the refrigerator. Just shake with ice before serving.
What if I don’t have crème de violette?
You can omit it or use a lavender syrup as a substitute for a floral touch.
Is there a lower-calorie option?
Yes, you can use a sugar-free simple syrup or reduce the amount of syrup used.
What other garnishes can I use?
Try garnishing with a lemon twist or an edible flower for an elegant touch.
Can I use store-bought cucumber juice?
Fresh cucumber juice is recommended for the best flavor, but store-bought can work in a pinch.
What type of gin is best for a Cucumber Aviation?
A floral or botanical gin works well, enhancing the cocktail’s aromatic profile.
