Caitlin Bensel
Fresh and slightly tart, this is not your traditionally saccharine-sweet cocktail. A twist on the classic vodka- and grapefruit-infused Greyhound drink, our Salty Dog Cocktail recipe makes the most of gin, grapefruit juice, and salt. The result? A cooler that’s nice and fruity, but anything but too sweet.
The Southern Living Test Kitchen crafted this version with fresh grapefruit juice, but bottled juice would be fine in a pinch. If you are freshly squeezing, we recommend using ruby red grapefruit for a beautiful, pink drink.
Traditionally, a Salty Dog is served straight up in a highball glass, but we think serving it over ice on a hot summer day is delightful. Finish your glass with a salted brim for a stylish look that balances flavor. More than a garnish, this briny salted boost is a great contrast to the drink’s zest and complements the bitterness of grapefruit and juniper taste of gin nicely.
Serve at your next party for proof that grapefruit juice, gin, and salt can stir up some fun.
Cheers!
How to Make It
Step 1
Stir together salt and zest on a small plate using your fingers until evenly combined. Line the rim of a highball glass with water; dip rim in salt mixture. Set aside.
Step 2
Place grapefruit juice, gin, and ice in a cocktail shaker; cover and shake until thoroughly chilled, about 10 seconds. Strain into prepared highball glass; garnish with grapefruit slice. Serve immediately.
Chef's Notes
Southern Living Test Kitchen used Beefeater gin for testing.
