Gin cocktail recipes paired with food

Classic gin cocktails have been a mainstay in the world of cocktails for years. Updating a gin cocktail is easy to do, especially when paired perfectly with a meal. Enjoy these two simple gin cocktail recipes, complete with suggested food pairings, and one delectable dinner recipe that uses gin as part of a gourmet glaze.

Gin Cocktail Recipes

Sweet Ginger Brown

Makes 1 drink

Ingredients:
2 1/2 ounces gin
1/2 ounce fresh squeezed lime juice
3/4 ounces liquefied honey or sugar water

Directions:
Shake all ingredients together in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain and pour straight up or on the rocks. Garnish with a lime slice.

Food pairing: This Sweet Ginger Brown pairs well with red meat such as steak or lamb.

Cucumber Gin

Makes 1 drink

Ingredients:
3 cucumber slices
2 1/2 ounces gin
2 ounces white cranberry juice

Directions:
Muddle cucumber slices until juice comes out. Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake well. Strain on the rocks or straight up. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

Food pairing: Light and refreshing, a Cucumber Gin pairs perfectly with grain salads or lightly dressed greens.

Tropical Gin-glazed Salmon

Serves 2

Ingredients:
2 ounces gin
2 teaspoons strawberry jam
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
4 ounces guava juice
1 ounce lemon juice
1 ounce agave nectar
2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Shake all ingredients together. Brush glaze over salmon fillets. Wrap fillets in aluminum foil. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until fish flakes easily.

Note: This gin glaze also works well on pork or chicken.

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