Cool, crisp, and ridiculously refreshing – the Screaming Viking is one of those cocktails that surprises you in the best way. With cucumber, mint, and a splash of lime, it’s like a spa day in a glass. This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something light, zesty, and easy to sip. Even though it started as a joke on the TV show “Cheers,” this drink quickly took on a life of its own, and I’m so glad it did.
Screaming Viking
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Glass: Highball or Collins
Ingredients
– 2 oz (60 ml) vodka
– 3 fresh cucumber slices
– 5-6 fresh mint leaves
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) fresh lime juice (about half a lime)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– Club soda, to top
– Ice, for shaking and serving
– Optional garnish: cucumber spear and fresh mint sprig
Method
- In a cocktail shaker, gently muddle the cucumber slices and mint leaves. Press just enough to release their aroma and juices – don’t mash them too hard or the mint can turn bitter.
- Add the vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.
- Fill the shaker with ice and give it a good shake – about 15 seconds until the outside feels cold.
- Strain the drink into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.
- Top it off with club soda, give it a gentle stir, and garnish with a cucumber spear and mint sprig if you’d like.
Tips & Tricks
– Don’t have a muddler? Use the back of a wooden spoon or a sturdy utensil – it works just fine.
– Use cold club soda for the best fizz.
– Want to make this ahead for a party? Prep the muddled mix (cucumber, mint, vodka, lime, and syrup) and keep it chilled. When ready to serve, pour over ice and top with soda.
Substitutions & Variations
No vodka?
Swap it for gin for a more herbaceous flavor. I’ve made this drink countless times, and gin gives it a fun botanical edge.
Watching sugar?
Use agave syrup or skip the sweetener altogether if your cucumbers are especially fresh and sweet.
Feeling bold?
Try a few thin slices of jalapeño in the muddle for a spicy kick – just a little goes a long way.
Flavor Notes
This drink is all about balance. You get the cooling cucumber and mint, a bright pop from the lime, and a little sweetness to round it out. The fizz from the soda keeps it light and bubbly. It’s the kind of drink that disappears fast – in the best way.
Make It a Mocktail
Skip the vodka and double up on the club soda or use sparkling water. Add a touch more lime and simple syrup to keep the flavors balanced. Still refreshing, still delicious.
Food Pairings
This cocktail shines alongside lighter fare. Try it with:
– Light salads – especially cucumber, arugula, or mint-based ones.
– Seafood – shrimp, ceviche, or grilled fish go beautifully with the drink’s freshness.
– Grilled vegetables – think zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant with a charred edge.
Storage
This cocktail is best served fresh. But if you want to prep ahead, mix everything except the club soda and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just shake and top with soda when ready to serve.
Fun Fact
The Screaming Viking didn’t even exist until a customer on “Cheers” made it up. But bartenders everywhere ran with the idea – and now it’s a real drink with real fans.
Try These Twists
Gin Viking
Use gin instead of vodka. Everything else stays the same. You’ll get a more fragrant, herbal vibe.
Spicy Viking
Add 1-2 slices of fresh jalapeño to the muddle for a little heat. Great if you like a spicy-sweet combo.
Berry Viking
Toss a few raspberries or blueberries into the muddle for a fruity twist. Adds color and a hint of natural sweetness.
FAQs
What makes this drink stand out?
The combo of cucumber and mint is ultra-refreshing – it’s like a cool breeze in a glass.
Can I use lemon juice instead of lime?
Sure! It’ll change the flavor slightly, but it still works nicely.
Is it hard to make?
Not at all. It’s super simple – just a quick muddle, shake, and pour.
What if I don’t have simple syrup?
Mix equal parts sugar and hot water until the sugar dissolves. Let it cool before using.
How do I make it less sweet?
Cut the simple syrup to ¼ oz (7 ml) or skip it altogether if your lime and cucumber are flavorful enough.
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This cocktail has become one of my favorite after-work wind-down drinks – light, fresh, and full of flavor. Whether you stick with the classic or try a twist, the Screaming Viking is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to fall in love with. Serve it with a plate of grilled veggies or a crisp salad, and you’ve got yourself a perfect warm-weather combo.
