This classic salty dog cocktail is made with vodka or gin, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and a salt rim. Great for two or a crowd!
As you know, I am always entertaining and throwing parties for friends and family. One of my favorite aspects of playing hostess is creating quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing cocktails that can be mixed together in advance. I recently put together this classic Salty Dog cocktail using just a few, simple ingredients. If you love salted margaritas, you’ll love this citrus cocktail recipe.
Ingredients
- Lime: Citrusy fresh bright flavor to bind the salt to the rim and blend with the grapefruit.
- Kosher Salt: Chunky, larger flakes of salt that cling to the rim and add that salty flavor.
- Vodka or Gin: Both are fairly neutral when it comes to alcohol, but the gin’s juniper berries can add an extra layer of flavor.
- grapefruit juice: Strong citrus flavor that can be sweet and sour, enhanced by the salt.
How to make a classic salty dog cocktail
Start your salty dog cocktail by mixing your grapefruit juice with your vodka or gin.
Then take your fresh lime and cut it into wedges.
Take your lime wedges and run them around the rims of your glasses.
Then take the still-wet rim and gently toss it in a plate of kosher salt.
Once your salt rims are done on your glasses, fill them with ice.
Pour your grapefruit and vodka/gin mix over the ice in each glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy your classic salty dog cocktail!
Frequently asked Questions:
What is the difference between a paloma and a salty dog?
The difference is the alcohol — a paloma is typically made with tequila.
Why is it called a salty dog cocktail?
It’s called a salty dog because the drink itself is the same as a greyhound but has the extra salt around the rim. Hence a salty dog!
Can I prepare this cocktail in advance?
Absolutely! I like to mix grapefruit and vodka a day before planning to host friends. I keep it in a jar in the fridge and use it as needed. When my guests arrive, I salt each edge individually. It’s a great way to break the ice when guests arrive and get them involved and excited about their drink!
Simpler cocktails
Have you tried this recipe and like it? Next time you make it, take a picture and share it with your social networks! Tag @thelemonbowl and #thelemonbowl so we can admire and share your drink.
The classic salty dog cocktail is easy to make ahead of time for a party, or simple enough to make just to enjoy. It’s refreshing and perfect for any occasion!
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Classic Salty Dog cocktail recipe
This fresh and fruity vodka cocktail is made with grapefruit juice, lime juice and a salt rim. Great for two or a crowd!
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Servings:
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Rim the glasses with salt by rubbing the glass with a lime wedge. Put salt on a small plate and rub the glass around to coat the rim with salt. Fill each rimmed glass with ice.
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In a small pitcher or cocktail shaker, mix vodka or gin with grapefruit juice. Pour between four glasses to serve.
To reduce the sodium number, reduce the salt.
Portion: 1GlassCalories: 140kcalCarbohydrates: 10GProtein: 1GFat: 1GSaturated Fatty Acids: 1GSodium: 3491mgPotassium: 147mgFiber: 1GSugar: 10GVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg
