Dirty Martini Recipe: Bold, Briny, and Totally Addictive!

The Dirty Martini is a classic cocktail that takes the traditional martini up a notch with the addition of olive brine, giving it that perfectly salty, savory twist. The mix of gin or vodka with dry vermouth and a splash of brine makes this drink an iconic choice for those who love a bold, briny flavor that dances on the palate. It’s the ideal drink to sip slowly as you unwind or to serve at a party for an elevated touch.

If you’re looking to pair it with something equally as flavorful, Deviled Eggs are an absolute must. The creamy filling and subtle tang of deviled eggs balances the strong flavors of the martini, creating the perfect bite to enjoy with your drink. Or, for a more savory snack, serve it alongside Bruschetta—crispy toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic, making it a delightful and fresh pairing to complement the brininess of the dirty martini.

So, whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it on a quiet evening, this Dirty Martini Recipe will be your new go-to cocktail.

Why I Love This Recipe (And You Will Too)

The completed Dirty Martini on the white marble cooktop, garnished with green olives, ready to be enjoyed for its salty, smooth flavor.

  • Savory Perfection: The olive brine adds a salty depth that takes a traditional martini to the next level.
  • Elevates Any Occasion: This cocktail adds sophistication to casual get-togethers and fancy parties alike.
  • Bold and Balanced: With just the right amount of saltiness and smoothness, this martini is a drink worth savoring.

Try this Dirty Martini with your favorite bites and enjoy the sophisticated, savory vibes it brings to your evening!

The completed Dirty Martini on the white marble cooktop, garnished with green olives, ready to be enjoyed for its salty, smooth flavor.

Dirty Martini Recipe

This classic Dirty Martini combines the bold flavor of vodka with the tangy brine from olives for a savory twist. Perfect for an evening cocktail, it’s simple yet full of flavor.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Course cocktail
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 207 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing glass
  • Stirring spoon
  • Strainer
  • Cocktail glasses or rocks glasses

Ingredients
  

  • 6 fluid ounces vodka
  • 1 dash dry vermouth
  • 1 fluid ounce brine from olive jar
  • 4 stuffed green olives

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine the vodka, dry vermouth, olive brine, and stuffed green olives.
    A mixing glass on the white marble cooktop with vodka, dry vermouth, olive brine, and stuffed green olives inside. The ingredients are ready to be mixed, creating the base for a Dirty Martini.
  • Mix: Stir the mixture well using a spoon.
  • Serve: Pour the cocktail into a glass with ice or strain it into chilled cocktail glasses.
    A spoon stirring the ingredients in the mixing glass on the white marble cooktop, ensuring the vodka, vermouth, and brine are well combined for a smooth, salty flavor.
  • Enjoy: Serve immediately and savor the salty, smooth flavor of your Dirty Martini!
    The completed Dirty Martini on the white marble cooktop, garnished with green olives, ready to be enjoyed for its salty, smooth flavor.

Nutrition Facts:

NutritionValue
Calories95 kcal
Carbohydrates9 g
Fat7 g
Fiber1 g
Calcium315 mg
Iron0.4 mg

Variations that Deserve to Be Tried!

1. Spicy Dirty Martini

Add a few dashes of hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Sriracha) to the mixture for a spicy kick. You can also muddle a few slices of jalapeño in the mixing glass to bring in fresh heat. This variation will give your Dirty Martini an exciting, bold twist.

2. Citrus Dirty Martini

Incorporate a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice into the mix. The citrus adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the richness of the vodka and brine, making the drink feel a bit lighter and more balanced.

3. Herb-Infused Dirty Martini

Experiment with infusing your vodka with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil for a more aromatic profile. Simply add a sprig of fresh herbs to the vodka and let it sit for 24 hours before using it in your Dirty Martini. This adds a fragrant layer of complexity to the drink.

4. Smoky Dirty Martini

Try replacing the vodka with smoky mezcal for a deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with the brine. The smokiness adds an intriguing depth, making this variation perfect for mezcal lovers or those looking for something different.

5. Olive Oil Dirty Martini

For a luxurious twist, add a small splash of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to the cocktail. This will add richness and a subtle olive flavor that complements the brine and olives while creating a silky texture.

6. Bacon-Infused Dirty Martini

Infuse your vodka with bacon for a savory, smoky twist on the classic. Simply fry up some bacon, let it cool, and combine the rendered fat with vodka in a jar for 24 hours. Strain the mixture before making your martini. The bacon infusion adds a delicious umami flavor.

7. Blue Cheese Stuffed Olives

Swap the regular green olives for blue cheese-stuffed ones. This variation enhances the richness of the martini, adding a sharp, creamy bite that pairs well with the briny olive brine.

8. Pickled Veggie Dirty Martini

Mix in a small amount of pickled vegetable brine (such as from pickled onions or pickled green beans) along with the olive brine. This adds a tangy, vinegary flavor and extra complexity, perfect for those who enjoy a more tangy Dirty Martini.

9. Frozen Dirty Martini

For a refreshing take, blend the ingredients with ice to create a frozen Dirty Martini. This is perfect for summer or for serving as a fun, icy cocktail at parties.

Each of these variations offers a new way to enjoy the classic Dirty Martini while allowing you to explore different flavors and textures. Cheers.

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Noah Baker

Hi! I’m Noah Baker

I have been a professional chef and restaurant owner for the past 20 years! I love to cook and bake, and I want to share my enthusiasm.

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