A refreshing cocktail with a bit of a kick, the Snake in the Grass is a perfect balance of citrus, mint, and herbal notes. It’s light, crisp, and just the thing for a warm evening. I’ve made this drink countless times, and it always impresses guests with its fresh flavors. Let’s walk through how to make it, plus a few fun ways to switch it up!
Snake In The Grass
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 2 oz (60ml) gin
- 1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
- 1 oz (30ml) simple syrup
- 8–10 fresh mint leaves
- Club soda, to top
- Ice
Glass: A highball glass works best, but a Collins glass is a great alternative.
How to Make a Snake in the Grass
- In a shaker, gently muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup. Don’t crush them too hard—just enough to release the oils.
- Add the gin, lime juice, and a handful of ice.
- Shake well until the mixture is chilled, about 10 seconds.
- Strain into a highball glass filled with ice.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime wheel.
Tip: Fresh mint makes all the difference! If possible, use homegrown or farmer’s market mint for the best aroma.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Simple syrup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just mix equal parts sugar and water, heat until dissolved, then cool.
- You can pre-mix the gin, lime juice, and syrup in a sealed jar and refrigerate for a few hours. Just shake with ice and add club soda when ready to serve.
Customizing Your Cocktail
Want to tweak the recipe? Here are some easy swaps:
- Swap the gin for vodka for a smoother base.
- Use lemon juice instead of lime for a slightly different citrus note.
- Replace simple syrup with honey syrup for a natural sweetness.
Fun Variations
Spicy Snake in the Grass
- Add a thin slice of jalapeño when muddling the mint for a little heat.
Tropical Snake in the Grass
- Swap club soda for coconut water for a smoother, island-inspired version.
Berry Snake in the Grass
- Muddle a handful of fresh berries (strawberries, blackberries, or raspberries) with the mint for a fruity twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version
- Replace the gin with sparkling water and add a little extra lime juice for zest.
Food Pairings
This cocktail pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled chicken – The zesty lime and mint balance smoky, savory flavors.
- Fresh salad – A crisp, light salad enhances the drink’s refreshing notes.
- Seafood – The citrusy kick pairs perfectly with shrimp or scallops.
Tips for the Best Snake in the Grass
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh lime juice and mint make a huge difference.
- Muddle gently – Press the mint just enough to release the oils without making it bitter.
- Adjust sweetness – If you prefer a drier drink, reduce the simple syrup slightly.
FAQs
What’s the best gin for this cocktail?
A gin with herbal or citrus notes works best. Try a London Dry or a botanical gin for extra flavor.
Can I make this in advance?
It’s best fresh, but you can mix the gin, lime juice, and syrup ahead of time. Just shake with ice and add club soda when serving.
How do I muddle mint properly?
Use a light hand—press the leaves gently to release oils without tearing them. This keeps the flavor fresh instead of bitter.
Can I use other herbs?
Yes! Basil or cilantro add a fun twist to the drink.
What’s a low-calorie version?
Use a sugar-free sweetener or cut the simple syrup in half. Also, opt for diet club soda to reduce calories.
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights, and I hope you love it as much as I do. Whether you keep it classic or try a fun variation, Snake in the Grass is sure to be a hit. Cheers! 🍹
