There’s something eye-catching and fun about the Borg Cocktail-it’s green, it’s fizzy, and it’s got just enough zing to keep things interesting. With a name inspired by Star Trek’s iconic collective, this drink blends sweet, citrusy, and herbal notes into a refreshing sipper that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. I’ve made this drink countless times-here’s a tip I picked up: use fresh lime juice and chill your glass first. It makes all the difference.
Borg Cocktail
Whether you’re hosting a sci-fi-themed party or just want something bold and different to serve up on a summer evening, the Borg Cocktail is a guaranteed conversation starter.
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins
Tools: Cocktail shaker, jigger, strainer, spoon
Ingredients
– 60 ml (2 oz) vodka
– 30 ml (1 oz) Midori (melon liqueur)
– 15 ml (½ oz) fresh lime juice
– 15 ml (½ oz) simple syrup
– Soda water, to top
– Ice, for shaking and serving
– Lime wheel or mint sprig, for garnish
Method
- Fill your shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, Midori, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake well-about 15 seconds-until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Strain into a chilled highball or Collins glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top off with soda water and give it a gentle stir to mix.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or a sprig of fresh mint.
Tips & Tricks
– Chill your glass in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
– Fresh lime juice adds a much brighter flavor than bottled-worth squeezing it yourself.
– Adjust the simple syrup to taste. If you like it less sweet, start with 10 ml (about ⅓ oz).
– For a little extra flair, rim the glass with sugar or colored salt before pouring.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can mix the vodka, Midori, lime juice, and syrup in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just hold off on adding the soda water until you’re ready to serve so it stays bubbly. If you’re making a big batch for a party, scale the ingredients up and store the mix in a pitcher-guests can top off their own drinks with soda water.
Ingredient Swaps
– No Midori? Try another melon liqueur or even a splash of melon syrup and a touch of green food coloring.
– Swap vodka for white rum if you want a softer, fruitier finish.
– Use agave syrup or honey syrup instead of simple syrup for a different kind of sweetness.
– For a non-alcoholic version, replace vodka with lemon-lime soda or ginger ale, and use melon syrup instead of Midori.
What It Tastes Like
The Borg Cocktail hits your tongue with a bright burst of citrus and melon, smoothed out by the vodka and balanced with a gentle sweetness. The soda water keeps it light and fizzy. It’s a drink that feels fresh and playful, but still has a bit of depth.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work cocktails-this one always lifts my mood. The color alone is enough to make you smile.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cocktail with foods that match its bold, zesty energy:
Spicy Tapas
The sweet and citrusy flavors help cool the heat of spicy dishes like patatas bravas or chorizo bites.
Grilled Shrimp or Scallops
The lime and melon notes play well with grilled seafood’s smoky-sweet taste.
Fresh Green Salads
A simple salad with vinaigrette brings out the cocktail’s herbaceous side.
Fun Variations
Galactic Green Tea Borg
– Replace Midori with green tea syrup
– Use gin instead of vodka
– Garnish with a cucumber ribbon
This version is a little more earthy and aromatic. Great for a more grown-up twist.
Borg Mojito Fusion
– Use white rum
– Muddle a few mint leaves with the lime juice and syrup before shaking
– Top with soda water
It’s like a mojito with a sci-fi spin.
Quantum Leap Borg
– Add a splash of blue curaçao to the shaker
– Follow the rest of the original recipe
You’ll get a shimmering teal drink that looks like it came from another galaxy.
Virgin Borg Cocktail
– Use melon syrup instead of Midori
– Replace vodka with lemon-lime soda or ginger ale
– Keep the rest of the recipe the same
Still delicious, still fun-great for kids or anyone skipping alcohol.
Helpful Q&A
Can I prep this drink ahead of time?
Yes! Mix everything except the soda water and store it in the fridge. Add soda just before serving.
Is it good for parties?
Absolutely. Pre-mix a large batch and let guests top off with soda themselves.
What’s the best garnish?
A lime wheel is classic, but mint, edible flowers, or even a melon ball on a skewer can make it pop.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can, but fresh lime really brightens the drink. If you use bottled, look for one without added sugars.
How do I get a cold glass fast?
Fill the glass with ice water while you mix the drink, then dump it right before pouring.
What can I use instead of Midori if I want a non-alcoholic version?
Melon syrup or a mix of honeydew juice and green food coloring works well.
This cocktail is a blast to make and even more fun to drink. Whether you’re a Star Trek fan or just love a good, vibrant cocktail, the Borg is a great addition to your recipe list. Try it out, tweak it to your taste, and let it become your own signature drink.
