by Caroline Sumner

Created on: March 18, 2010

A vodka gimlet is one of my very favorite drinks. It is relaxing and refreshing, perfect as an afternoon cocktail or as a nightcap on a hot summer's night. It is deceptively simple - just two or three ingredients, depending on how you prepare it - but its flavor goes far beyond what is expected. There are several ways to prepare it, as well as a few variations on it. 

TRADITIONAL VODKA GIMLET

This is the favorite drink of Betty Draper on MAD MEN, so you know it has to be good!

INGREDIENTS

1 oz. lime juice

1 1/2 oz. vodka

1 tsp. powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS

Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.

EASY VODKA GIMLET

Short on powdered sugar and fresh limes? Don't despair - here's a simple way to make the drink that tastes just as wonderful.

INGREDIENTS

1 1/2 oz. vodka

1 oz. Rose's Sweetened Lime Juice

DIRECTIONS

Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.

GRAPEFRUIT VODKA GIMLET

For those who aren't partial to lime, this grapefruit variation is delicious. You can also make an "easy" version of it with sweetened grapefruit juice if you prefer.

INGREDIENTS

1 oz. grapefruit juice

1 1/2 oz. vodka

1 tsp. powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS

Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.

LEMON VODKA GIMLET

Like lemon better than lime? This is the drink for you!

INGREDIENTS

1 oz. lemon juice

1 1/2 oz. vodka

1 tsp. powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS

Stir all ingredients with ice, strain into a cocktail glass, and serve.

FROZEN VODKA GIMLET

For those boiling-hot nights (or when you have a sore throat), this is a perfect drink.

INGREDIENTS

Ice

2 oz. vodka

2 oz. lime juice

1/2 oz. sugar syrup

DIRECTIONS

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Adjust proportions as necessary. 

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