Lemon Drop Martini

Lemon Sugar:

1/2 c. granulated sugar

zest from 1 lemon

Lemon Drop Martini:

2 ounces (1/4 c.) quality vodka

3/4 ounce (1 1/2 T.) Cointreau or triple sec

1 ounce (2 T.) fresh squeezed lemon juice

3/4 ounce (1 1/2 T.) simple syrup

1. Add sugar to a plate then rub the zest into the sugar with your fingers until tinted yellow and fragrant.
2. To make martini,  moisten the rim of a chilled martini glass with the juiced lemon, turn the glass upside down and twist into the lemon sugar, set aside.
3. Add vodka, Cointreau, lemon juice, simple syrup and a handful of ice to a cocktail shaker.  
4. Shake for 30 seconds or until very cold. 
5. Strain into the prepared martini glass and serve immediately.