Salty Dog Cocktail Recipe

If you’re looking for a cocktail that’s both tart and savory, the Salty Dog is the perfect choice. This classic drink features grapefruit juice and your choice of vodka or gin, served with a salted rim that complements the citrusy tang. Originally crafted as a twist on the Greyhound, the Salty Dog has earned its place as a favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors and a touch of salt.

Equipment

You’ll need the following items to make a Salty Dog:

Cocktail shaker: For mixing the ingredients.
Fine-mesh strainer: To ensure no pulp gets into the drink.
Small plate: For salting the rim.
Measuring cup: To measure liquids accurately.
Rocks or highball glass: For serving the cocktail.
Citrus juicer: For extracting fresh grapefruit juice.
Ice cubes: To chill the drink.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you need:

2 ounces gin or vodka
4 ounces fresh grapefruit juice
Flaky sea salt (for the rim)
Lime or grapefruit wedge (for the rim)
Simple syrup (optional, to taste)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Salt the rim of the glass: Run a wedge of lime or grapefruit around the edge of the glass. Dip the rim into a plate of flaky sea salt.
Mix the cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, combine 2 ounces of gin or vodka with 4 ounces of grapefruit juice. Add ice cubes.
Shake and strain: Shake until cold. Strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
Optional adjustment: Taste and add simple syrup 1/2 ounce at a time if you prefer it sweeter.

Tasting Notes

The Salty Dog has a bright and tangy flavor profile. The grapefruit juice provides a refreshing tartness, balanced by the savory sea salt on the rim. Using gin adds botanical notes, while vodka offers a cleaner, neutral background. Adjust the sweetness with simple syrup to suit your taste.

Similar Cocktails

Several cocktails share similarities with the Salty Dog:

Greyhound: Essentially a Salty Dog without the salted rim.
Paloma: Uses tequila and includes lime juice and soda water.
Sea Breeze: Combines vodka, cranberry juice, and grapefruit juice.
Cape Codder: Vodka mixed with cranberry juice and garnished with a lime wedge.

History

The Salty Dog originated in the mid-20th century. Its exact origins are unclear, but it became popular in American bars. It evolved from the Greyhound, with the addition of a salted rim. The combination of flavors offers a unique mix of savory and tangy, making it a classic.

Quick Pro Tips

Use freshly squeezed grapefruit juice for the best flavor.
Chill all ingredients before mixing.
Experiment with different gins for variations in flavor.
Use coarse, flaky sea salt for the rim for a better texture.
Serve immediately to enjoy at its coldest and most refreshing.

When to Serve

The Salty Dog is versatile and suitable for various occasions:

Brunch: Its light and refreshing taste makes it ideal for morning or early afternoon events.
Summer gatherings: Perfect for hot weather due to its cooling citrus flavor.
Cocktail parties: A sophisticated choice that’s easy to prepare in batches.
Casual get-togethers: Simple enough to make quickly for friends or family.