The Cosmopolitan, often referred to as the "Cosmo," is a chic and sophisticated cocktail that gained iconic status in the 1990s thanks to the popular TV show Sex and the City. A vibrant blend of vodka, triple sec, cranberry juice, and fresh lime juice, it’s the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and citrusy.
Cocktail shaker
Hawthorne strainer
Chilled martini glass
Citrus peeler
Chill the Glass:
Fill a martini glass with ice water and set aside to chill while you prepare the cocktail.
Combine Ingredients:
In a cocktail shaker, add vodka, triple sec, lime juice, and cranberry juice.
Fill the shaker with ice cubes.
Shake Vigorously:
Shake for 15-20 seconds until the mixture is well-chilled and slightly frothy.
Strain and Serve:
Discard the ice water from the martini glass.
Using a Hawthorne strainer, strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
Garnish:
Garnish with a lemon twist or lime wheel for a classic look.
For a festive touch, add a couple of fresh cranberries.
Serve immediately while the cocktail is icy cold.
The traditional Cosmo is served in a chilled martini glass to maintain its temperature and enhance its elegance.
Appetizers: Shrimp cocktail, smoked salmon crostini, mini crab cakes.
Main Course: Grilled chicken Caesar salad, lemon-butter shrimp pasta.
Dessert: White chocolate mousse, key lime tart, or raspberry sorbet.
Sweeter Cosmo: Add a splash of simple syrup or a dash of cranberry liqueur for a sweeter finish.
Lighter Cosmo: Replace some of the vodka with sparkling water or prosecco for a lighter, bubbly version.
Blood Orange Cosmo: Swap cranberry juice with blood orange juice for a vibrant, citrus-forward twist.
Spicy Cosmo: Muddle a slice of jalapeño in the shaker before adding ice for a spicy kick.
The Cosmopolitan became wildly popular in the 1990s, but it was actually created in the 1980s by bartender Toby Cecchini in Manhattan.
The bright pink color and sweet-tart flavor make it a favorite among those who enjoy a vodka-forward drink with a splash of fruitiness.
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