Vanilla Girl Martini

I decided that I needed to create a signature drink...it would be called the Vanillagirl Martini.  This drink would contain all of my favorite flavors...vanilla of course was a requirement.  Now normally when I order a drink I will order a classic dirty martini, or something else not too sweet.  So, I chose simply Prairie Organic Vodka as my base liquor.  I made a honey syrup, since I prefer honey to sugar any day, for it's wonderful complex flavor.  Then I added real vanilla beans to the honey syrup to give it lots of vanilla flavor, which I wanted to be very present in my drink!  I wanted a bit of sour to go with the sweet of the honey, so I chose lemon juice, since I can't get enough lemon in the summer!  Basil was my last addition to my drink recipe, because basil is my herb of choice in the warm months, and about every day I pick some fresh from my patio.  This may not be the classic way to make a martini, but it sure is delicious, and refreshing!  It ended up being my perfect signature drink, and I will be making it many times this summer!  No need to spend over $10 on a artisan drink in a fine restaurant.  Try this on a hot day, and you won't be disappointed! 

Vanilla Honey Syrup:
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup honey
seeds of one vanilla bean

Heat water until boiling, remove from heat and whisk in honey and vanilla beans, until honey is dissolved.  Chill well before using in drinks.  Makes 1/2 cup syrup


Vanilla Girl Martini
Serves 1

2 large fresh basil leaves
4-6 large ice cubes
1 oz honey vanilla syrup
2 oz Prairie Organic Vodka
1 oz fresh organic lemon juice

In a martini shaker, muddle the basil leaves with the ice, crushing them until they are in small pieces.  Add the vanilla honey syrup, vodka, and lemon juice, place top on shaker, and shake until well blended.  Pour into a chilled martini glass, and serve!