Who’s surprised to see another cocktail post that includes lemons? No-one. Ok, that is pretty accurate. I like lemons and the bright and acidic punch they add to meals and cocktails. So, why not throw it in with an earthy herb like oregano, toss a little vodka and lemoncello into the mix and I’m starting to witness the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

Creating an experience for me includes thinking of all things that creates a memorable evening. Good food, great company, and taking things up one more level with a complimentary cocktail.

On the evening where the entire meal revolved around oregano, I was definitely going to include the like in my cocktail as well.

Adding an herb to a cocktail can be done a few ways – there is the Muddling technique where you smash it to release the oils and flavors into your beverage; there is Infusing, where you let the herbs sit over time to depart its flavor directly into a liquor; and there is the creation of a Simple Syrup infusion, which uses heat along with sugar to more quickly depart its flavor, then used as an additive to a cocktail and not the main liquor.

In this case, I felt flavoring a simple syrup was the best vehicle to elevate this cocktail. This simple syrup adds just the right amount of complimentary flavors, which really makes this cocktail stand out, while still supporting the theme of the meal.

This moment is a happy place for me. The type of happy place where creativity is circling, scents of sautéing garlic and shallots fill the air, and taste buds are met with all things sweet, tart, full and rich. Our date night was made complete with the sound of a cheers with glasses full of our Oregano & Lemon Cocktail.

Oregano & Lemon Cocktail

*Makes 2 cocktails

Ingredients:

• 3 oz Vodka
• 1.5 oz Lemoncello
• 1 oz Oregano Simple Syrup

Preparation:

Add all 3 ingredients to a shaker with ice. Shake for 25 seconds. Strain over crushed ice. Serve with a fresh oregano stem and lemon wedge.

Oregano Simple Syrup Recipe:

Combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water and 2 springs of oregano to a sauce pan. Heat over medium heat until sugar is fully desolved. Strain into container and chill in fridge before using.

Happy Cocktailing!

*Experimental Spoon Original