Vodka Martini
A classic vodka martini is vodka shaken with ice until freezing cold, strained into a chilled glass, and garnished with two pimento-stuffed olives. Its standout trait is its simplicity and the importance of proper chilling technique.
A classic vodka martini is vodka shaken with ice until freezing cold, strained into a chilled glass, and garnished with two pimento-stuffed olives. Its standout trait is its simplicity and the importance of proper chilling technique.
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Pour a generous amount of vodka into a cocktail shaker.
Add about six ice cubes to the shaker.
Secure the lid and shake vigorously until the shaker is freezing cold to the touch.
Strain the martini into a chilled martini glass.
Garnish with two olives on a cocktail pick.
Martinis are best served immediately. Do not store—prepare and serve fresh each time.
cocktail shaker · bar strainer · jigger or measuring glass
Shaking (as in this recipe) incorporates more ice and creates a colder, slightly diluted drink. Stirring is gentler and preferred by purists for gin martinis. Both methods work for vodka martinis.
Pre-chill your glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes, or fill it with ice water while you prepare the drink, then discard before straining.
Yes—use Castelvetrano olives for a buttery flavor, or regular green olives. Pimento-stuffed olives are traditional and add a subtle sweetness.
Use the 6 ice cubes specified. Large cubes melt slower and keep the drink colder than smaller ice.
This is a pure vodka martini—no vermouth. It's a stripped-down, spirit-forward version. Traditional martinis include a splash of dry vermouth.
