Cocktail Request: Lemon-Thyme Martini

As requested from a nice reader, here is the recipe for Lemon-Thyme Martinis. I found this recipe on the Fine Living Network's website. This is a really great drink worth making.

Lemon-Thyme Martini

Ingredients:
2 cups water
2 cups granulated sugar
zest of 1 lemon
1 handful fresh thyme sprigs
1/2-cup lemon-flavored vodka, such as Citron
1/4-cup Lemoncello
candied lemon rind, for garnish (optional)

Directions for the herb-simple syrup for this drink (make ahead to save time):

1. Combine the water, sugar and lemon zest in a pot over medium heat.
2. Gently simmer for 3 minutes until the sugar is dissolved, swirling the pot over the heat now and then. Do not allow to boil or get dark.
3. Put the thyme in a mason jar or glass container and pour the sugar syrup on top; allow to steep while it cools for 1-2 hours to infuse the herb flavor into the syrup.
4. Strain to remove the solids.

Direction for the martini:

1. In a martini shaker filled with ice, combine the vodka, Lemoncello, and 4 tablespoons of the herb-syrup.
2. Shake well until frothy and strain into 4 chilled martini glasses. Float candied lemon rind in each glass for great presentation.


Recipe for Candied Lemon Rinds from Myrecipe.com

This recipe is very quick and easy. You will find yourself wanting to make more of these.

Ingredients:
1 large lemon
1/4 cup sugar, divided
1 tablespoon water

Directions:

1. Carefully remove rind from lemon using a vegetable peeler. Cut rind into 1/8-inch-thick strips; set aside.
2. Combine 2 tablespoons sugar and water in a 2-cup glass measure.
3. Microwave at High 1 minute; stir in rind strips.
4. Microwave at High 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds.
5. Add remaining 2 tablespoons sugar, and toss well.
6. Spread rind in a single layer on wax paper; let stand at room temperature until dry. Store in an airtight container.