The Seaboard cocktail is like a sip of the coast—cool, citrusy, and just the right amount of salty. It’s one of those drinks that instantly makes you feel like you’re somewhere breezy by the water, even if you’re just relaxing in your backyard. I’ve made this cocktail more times than I can count, especially during summer get-togethers. It’s light, refreshing, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Seaboard
What You’ll Need
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glassware: Highball glass (or a martini glass for a fancier feel)
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) vodka
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) blue curaçao
– 1 oz (30 ml) freshly squeezed lime juice
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) simple syrup
– Soda water, to top up
– Ice cubes
– Pinch of salt (for garnish)
– Optional garnish: lime wheel or orange zest curl
Method
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Pour in the vodka, blue curaçao, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Shake for about 15 seconds, until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
- Fill your highball glass with ice and strain the mixture over it.
- Top with soda water for a fizzy finish.
- Sprinkle a small pinch of salt on top—it gives that little nod to the sea.
- Garnish with a lime wheel or a curl of orange zest, if you like.
Tips & Tricks
– Use fresh lime juice—it makes a world of difference in brightness and flavor.
– Chill your glass before pouring to keep the drink extra cold.
– If you don’t have simple syrup, you can quickly make it by dissolving equal parts sugar and hot water. Let it cool before using.
– Avoid using table salt for the garnish—it can be too harsh. Try flaky sea salt or a flavored salt for a more delicate touch.
– Shake until the shaker feels frosty. That’s your cue it’s cold enough.
Ingredient Swaps
– No vodka? Try gin for a slightly herbal twist or white rum for a sweeter edge.
– Blue curaçao gives that ocean-blue color and orange flavor, but you can swap it with triple sec or orange liqueur and a drop of blue food coloring.
– No soda water? Club soda or even a splash of tonic water works—just note tonic will add a bitter bite.
– Watching sugar? Use a drizzle of honey or agave instead of simple syrup.
Make-Ahead Notes
Planning for a party? You can batch the vodka, blue curaçao, lime juice, and syrup in advance and keep it chilled. Just shake individual servings with ice and top with soda water when you’re ready to serve.
Storage
This cocktail is best enjoyed fresh. If you do mix a batch, keep it refrigerated (without the soda water) and use within 24 hours for the best flavor.
What It Tastes Like
The Seaboard has bright citrus from the lime, a hint of sweet orange from the curaçao, and a refreshing fizz from the soda water. That little pinch of salt on top brings out the flavors even more—kind of like seasoning a dish just right. It’s got a clean, crisp finish that makes it super easy to sip.
I thought I’d share one of my favorite after-work cocktails because it’s just so easy to love. The color alone makes it feel like a celebration.
Food Pairings
This drink shines alongside dishes that match its breezy, beachy vibe:
– Fresh oysters: Their briny flavor pairs beautifully with the salt and citrus in the Seaboard.
– Grilled shrimp or fish tacos: The smoky, savory notes balance the sweet and sour of the drink.
– Light salads: Try a citrus-dressed arugula salad or a watermelon-feta combo for a refreshing match.
Variations
Tropical Seaboard
– Add 1 oz (30 ml) pineapple juice and swap vodka for coconut rum.
– Shake and serve over ice with a pineapple wedge.
Spiced Seaboard
– Use spiced rum instead of vodka and add a pinch of cinnamon.
– Shake and strain into a chilled glass.
Berry Seaboard
– Muddle a few fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries) with the lime juice.
– Build the rest of the drink over the berries in the glass.
Virgin Seaboard (Mocktail)
– Leave out the vodka and blue curaçao.
– Add 1 oz cranberry juice and a splash of orange juice for color and flavor.
– Top with soda water and garnish the same way.
FAQs
What makes the Seaboard stand out?
It’s that balance of citrusy tartness, a touch of sweetness, and a salty finish—like a cocktail version of a sea breeze.
Can I make a pitcher for a party?
Absolutely. Just multiply the ingredients by how many servings you need. Stir everything together (except the soda water) and chill. Add soda water just before serving.
When’s the best time to enjoy it?
It’s perfect for sunny afternoons, rooftop evenings, or even as a pre-dinner drink. Its lightness makes it super versatile.
Can I use bottled lime juice?
You can, but fresh lime juice really makes a difference. Bottled versions often taste flat or overly acidic.
How do I make it look extra nice?
Use clear ice cubes, garnish with a lime wheel or orange zest, and serve in a chilled glass. Presentation really elevates the experience.
The Seaboard is one of those cocktails that feels special without being fussy. Whether you’re making it for guests or just for yourself after a long day, it’s a drink that brings a little bit of that ocean calm into your glass.
