Cilantro Lime Gin & Tonic

This vibrant cilantro lime gin and tonic puts a fresh spin on the classic cocktail. Quick to mix and refreshing, this twist on the classic gin tonic recipe is your new go-to drink. Ready in 5 minutes!

about this cilantro lime gin and tonic

I ignited my love affair with gin and tonics in Dublin a long time ago. I found an amazing new restaurant in Dublin called L Mulligan Grocer. When you step inside the cozy restaurant, which used to be a grocery store, and you are handed menus hidden within old hardback books. I was enchanted immediately, especially when a delightful gin and tonic was placed in front of me garnished with fresh coriander (aka cilantro). 

After that first sip, my taste buds were hit with juniper berries, heather and coriander. It was like welcoming in an old friend who I hadn’t seen in years. The smell, the taste, the sparkling bubbles – they all came together to reclaim my heart…

This kind of love is one that I had to replicate the moment I got home. It might have taken me a pitcher’s worth of gin and tonics to find the perfect balance, but when I reached that “aha” moment (more like an “ahhhhhhh” moment), I couldn’t have been happier.

Like the gin and tonic I had in Dublin, I used fresh cilantro and added a bit of lime juice. I love that little tang that lime juice brings to the party! As soon as you take that first crisp sip, you will know exactly what I am talking about. Cheers!

Note: This is an updated version of the original published on June 20, 2014. The post now includes tips, recommendations, and variations!

ingredients

cilantro. Fresh cilantro leaves are a must. Do not use dried cilantro.

lime. A fresh lime is the best option for this cocktail!

gin. Use your favorite gin! We usually like Hendrick’s gin or Bombay Sapphire. Tanqueray or Beefeater are other nice options. You could also use Empress Gin that will add a pretty purple hue to the drink. Whatever the best gin you can buy is, use that.

tonic water. Do not get the cheapest tonic water available. You need a high-quality tonic water brand, such as Fever Tree, to get the best flavor.

this recipe’s must-haves

To make this cocktail, you will need a jigger for measuring, a muddler, a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, and a cocktail strainer.

Serve the drink in your favorite double old-fashioned glasses or cocktail glasses.

here’s how to make sourdough garlic toast

muddle

Add cilantro leaves to the bottom of a cocktail shaker or mixing glass with lime wedge. Muddle lightly to release the fresh lime juice.

Pour in gin and stir to combine.

finish

Strain into a cocktail glass filled with ice. Top with tonic water. Garnish with a fresh cilantro sprig.

variations

use different citrus. Try using lemon or grapefruit for a different flavor to pair with the botanicals in the gin.

use good tonic water. Not all tonic water is created the same. You’ll be amazed how a good tonic water brand can make all the difference! We use Fever Tree tonic water the most.

add other flavors. Add in a couple cucumber slices to muddle with the cilantro. Use different fresh herbs like thyme or a sprig of rosemary. Muddle in a jalapeno slice for spice.

More refreshing gin and tonic recipes: Lemon Basil Gin and Tonic | Pear Rosemary Gin and Tonic | Blackberry Thyme Gin and Tonic | Thyme Apple Gin and Tonic

how much gin should I use for a gin and tonic recipe?

We like to use 1 1/2 to 2 ounces of gin in a gin and tonic recipe. Usually you use 4 to 6 ounces of tonic water in a gin and tonic. My ideal balance is 2 ounces of gin to 4 ounces of tonic water. You can taste and adjust as you like!

what gin is best with tonic?

I generally recommend a London Dry gin (like Beefeater), Plymouth gin, or Bombay gin for a gin and tonic. The flavor of these gins balances out the bitter notes in the tonic water. Other tasty brands include Hendrick’s gin or Suntory Roku gin.

can I skip the cilantro?

Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the cilantro to make this cocktail a simple gin and tonic recipe with lime.

Need some inspiration for cocktail hour? Check out my cocktail recipes page!

what to serve with a cilantro lime gin and tonic

Gin and tonics generally go well with either seafood or spicy food! I also like to pair them with comfort food to break up the heaviness of a main dish.

You could pay homage to the restaurant this recipe came from by serving up Instant Pot Irish Beef Stew.

For seafood, try baked lemon garlic salmon, grilled bang bang shrimp skewers, or a salmon sandwich with creamy dill sauce.

Want something spicy? Try pairing it with a spicy bbq pulled chicken burger or spicy tuna poke wonton cups.

more gin recipes to mix up

This fruity and bubbly blackberry gin fizz is just the right balance of sweetness and floral gin.

Ever tried a classic gin sling cocktail? With just the right touch of bitters, this is an instant favorite.

A gin basil smash only needs 5 ingredients and a few minutes to whip up!

Finally, if you make this cilantro lime gin tonic recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a star recipe rating on the recipe card and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

Want to know when I come out with a new recipe or the latest news? Sign up for my newsletter!