Daisy Cocktail Recipe

The Daisy cocktail has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. It is believed to have originated in the United States and was popular during the Prohibition era. The Daisy is a classic cocktail that has evolved over time, with many variations created by bartenders around the world.

• The name 'Daisy' is derived from the Old English word 'daes eage', which means 'day's eye'
• The Daisy was a popular choice among the upper class in the late 1800s and early 1900s
• The original Daisy recipe called for gin, but it has since been adapted to include other spirits like whiskey, rum, and tequila

The Daisy cocktail is a refreshing, citrusy, and slightly sweet drink with a hint of tartness. It has a well-balanced flavor profile that is both light and invigorating, making it perfect for warm weather or as an aperitif.

• The Daisy is considered a 'sour' cocktail, which is a category of drinks that includes classics like the Whiskey Sour and the Margarita
• The Daisy is often garnished with seasonal fruit or a citrus wheel to enhance its visual appeal and add a touch of freshness
• Some variations of the Daisy include the addition of grenadine, which gives the drink a beautiful pink hue

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice
2. Add the gin, lemon juice, orange curacao, and simple syrup
3. Shake well until chilled
4. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice
5. Top with club soda
6. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprig of mint

• Use fresh lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor
• Chill your glass before pouring the cocktail to keep it cool longer
• Shake the cocktail shaker vigorously to properly mix the ingredients and chill the cocktail

Food Pairings

• Cheese Platters: The citrus notes in the Daisy pair beautifully with creamy cheeses such as brie or goat cheese, creating a delightful contrast between the zesty cocktail and the rich flavors of the cheese.
• Seafood Appetizers: Light seafood dishes like shrimp cocktail or ceviche complement the fresh and crisp nature of the Daisy.
• Grilled Chicken: The herbal notes from the gin and the acidity from the lemon make it a perfect match for herbed grilled chicken.

• Gin: Can be replaced with vodka or tequila
• Orange Curacao: Can be substituted with Grand Marnier or Cointreau
• Simple Syrup: Can be replaced with agave syrup or honey

Cucumber Daisy

• Ingredients: Swap gin for cucumber-infused gin, and add a dash of elderflower liqueur.
• Recipe: The recipe follows the classic, except cucumber-infused gin adds a garden-fresh spin. A dash of elderflower liqueur introduces floral notes.
• Flavor: This version is fresher and slightly sweeter, with an elegant floral undercurrent.

Spicy Daisy

• Ingredients: Add a slice of jalapeño to the shaker.
• Recipe: Muddle the jalapeño slice in the shaker before adding the other ingredients. The rest remains unchanged.
• Flavor: Expect a bold kick of heat, tempered by the citrus, for those who like a little fire with their flowers.

Berry Daisy

• Ingredients: Muddle a handful of mixed berries in the shaker.
• Recipe: Muddle the berries well before adding the remaining ingredients. Strain into the glass.
• Flavor: The berries add a burst of sweetness and a brilliant color, creating a fruity twist on the classic.