I suppose Fr. Garrigou-Lagrange is the house theologian in our little Appalachian abode, for I have spend more hours with his work than likely any other modern theologian. (God has a sense of humor, no doubt, given my life as a Ruthenian Catholic.) At my wife’s recommendation, this fresh cocktail has become our “house cocktail.” It matches even the palate of my mother-in-law, who is picky about such things! It is a fresh drink that is particularly good for the summer.
Muddle these in a mixer:
3-5 cucumber slices (Don’t totally mash, but get them relatively soft)
1 lime, cut into 8 pieces (Don’t push all the juice out, however)
1/2 oz. Simple Syrup (Some use up to 3/4 oz.)
Add the following and shake with ice:
2-2.5 oz. Gin (I prefer the bite of Tanqueray. My wife likes Bombay Sapphire for something slightly smoother. If you want to bring out the cucumber motif, I recommend Hendrick’s.)
Pour into a cold rocks glass filled with regular ice cubes.
Top with fresh cracked pepper and salt
Enjoy on a hot evening!