The Best Homemade Martini Recipe

Lose yourself in the perfect homemade martini—crisp, elegant, and dangerously easy to make, but one secret ingredient changes everything.

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What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade martini recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress or simply enjoy a classic cocktail at home. You’ll love how simple it is to make with just a few ingredients, yet it feels so elegant and special. It’s customizable, so you can tweak it to your taste—stronger, smoother, or with a unique twist. Plus, it’s quicker than ordering at a bar, giving you more time to sip and savor. And let’s be honest, nothing beats the satisfaction of saying, “I made this myself!”

Recipe

classic cocktail crafting guide

Crafting the perfect martini at home is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients and a straightforward process, you can enjoy this classic cocktail in the comfort of your own space.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 ounces gin or vodka
  • 1/2 ounce dry vermouth
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon twist or olive for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  2. Pour in the gin or vodka and dry vermouth.
  3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill the mixture.
  4. Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
  5. Garnish with a lemon twist or olive, if desired.

Notes:

  • For a drier martini, reduce the amount of vermouth.
  • For a wetter martini, increase the vermouth slightly.
  • Confirm all ingredients and tools are well-chilled for the best results.

Equipment:

  • Mixing glass or cocktail shaker
  • Bar spoon
  • Strainer
  • Chilled martini glass

Time:

Prep time: 2 minutes

Cooking time: 1 minute

Cuisine: International

Serving: 1 serving

Nutrition

Martinis are a classic cocktail, but they do contain calories and carbs. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a standard homemade martini:

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories160 kcal
Carbohydrates0.5 g
Protein0 g
Fat0 g
Sodium0 mg

What To Serve With It

When I make a homemade martini, I love pairing it with classic appetizers like olives or cheese stuffed peppers, but sometimes I get creative with mini caprese skewers or bacon-wrapped dates. These combinations bring out the best in the cocktail, whether I’m going for something traditional or a little unexpected. It’s all about finding what complements its bold flavors without overpowering them.

Classic Pairings

Though a martini stands strong on its own, it’s even better when paired with the right bites. I love serving it with classic hors d’oeuvres like olives, stuffed cherry peppers, or a simple charcuterie board with cured meats and tangy cheeses. The salty, savory flavors balance the martini’s sharpness perfectly. For something heartier, I’ll add smoked salmon on crackers or oysters on the half shell—they’re elegant and complement the drink’s crispness. If I’m hosting a casual evening, I’ll pair it with nuts or a platter of antipasto. These timeless pairings always make my martini moments feel complete.

Creative Combinations

If you’re looking to mix things up a bit, I’ve got some fun and unexpected pairings to try with your martini. Skip the usual olives and try spicy stuffed peppers—they add a kick that complements the drink’s crispness. For something fresh, pair it with a cucumber and dill salad; it’s light and cooling. If you’re feeling adventurous, mini crab cakes or smoked salmon bites bring a rich, savory twist. Dessert lovers, don’t worry—dark chocolate truffles work surprisingly well. These combos elevate your martini experience, making it feel special without being fussy. Give ‘em a shot—you might find a new favorite!

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