Ingredients

For the Cocktail

• 2 large ripe heirloom tomatoes (or 3 Roma tomatoes), chopped
• 4 ounces (120ml) premium vodka
• 1 ounce (30ml) dry vermouth
• 1 ounce (30ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ½ ounce (15ml) simple syrup (optional, adjust to taste)
• 4–5 fresh basil leaves
• 2 dashes celery bitters (optional)
• 1 pinch flaky sea salt
• 1 cup ice cubes

For Garnish

• Cherry tomatoes
• Fresh basil leaves
• Lemon twist
• Cracked black pepper
• Celery leaves
• Thin cucumber ribbon (optional)

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Fine-mesh strainer
• Blender or muddler
• Citrus juicer
• Jigger
• Martini glasses
• Small knife and cutting board

Instructions

Step 1: Chill the Glasses

Place two martini glasses in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before preparing the cocktail.

Chilled glasses help keep the drink crisp and refreshing.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Wash and core the tomatoes.

Roughly chop them into small pieces.

For an extra-smooth cocktail, blend the tomatoes for 20–30 seconds, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to extract about 3 ounces (90ml) of fresh tomato juice.

Alternatively, muddle the chopped tomatoes directly in the cocktail shaker.

Step 3: Build the Cocktail

In a cocktail shaker, combine:

• Fresh tomato juice
• Vodka
• Dry vermouth
• Lemon juice
• Simple syrup (if using)
• Celery bitters
• Sea salt
• Basil leaves

Fill the shaker with ice.

Step 4: Shake

Shake vigorously for 20–30 seconds until the shaker becomes well chilled.

This thoroughly combines the ingredients while slightly diluting the cocktail for a smooth finish.

Step 5: Strain

Double-strain the cocktail through a fine-mesh sieve into the chilled martini glasses.

This removes tomato pulp, basil pieces, and ice shards for a silky-smooth texture.

Step 6: Garnish

Garnish each cocktail with:

• A basil leaf
• A cherry tomato on a cocktail pick
• A lemon twist

Finish with a tiny pinch of freshly cracked black pepper for a subtle savory aroma.

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately while ice cold.

Pair with:

• Bruschetta
• Burrata with tomatoes
• Charcuterie boards
• Grilled shrimp
• Smoked salmon crostini
• Marinated olives
• Caprese salad

Chef’s Tips

• Use fully ripe, in-season tomatoes for the sweetest and most flavorful cocktail.
• Strain the tomato juice twice for an exceptionally smooth martini.
• Chill all ingredients before mixing for the freshest taste.
• Fresh basil adds a fragrant herbal note without overpowering the tomatoes.
• Taste before serving and adjust the lemon juice or simple syrup to balance sweetness and acidity.

Delicious Variations

Spicy Tomato Tini

Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce before shaking.

Bloody Tomato Tini

Include Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and a dash of hot sauce for a Bloody Mary-inspired twist.

Cucumber Tomato Tini

Blend cucumber with the tomatoes for a lighter, extra-refreshing cocktail.

Mediterranean Tomato Tini

Add a sprig of rosemary and garnish with an olive and basil leaf.

Gin Tomato Tini

Replace the vodka with a premium dry gin for a more botanical flavor.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Fresh tomato juice can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Shake the cocktail just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Storage

This cocktail is best enjoyed immediately after mixing.

Leftover tomato juice can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 170
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 0g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 120mg