Citrus and olive martini

Author Notes

While others may think of a tagine or a pasta dish, when I think of citrus and olives, I think: Martini! My father was a devoted martini drinker, enjoying a gin martini on the rock every day at 5 PM until the day he died (at the age of 86). He used a twist of lemon along with one or two pimento-stuffed olives. I love that combination and carry on the tradition. However, unlike my father, I have adapted a combination of half gin and half vodka, served straight up. I find this combination very smooth and seductive. My father loved Beefeater’s gin, but I prefer Tanqueray or Bombay Sapphire. My vodka of choice is a local organic vodka, called Prairie. Nevertheless, Dad, this drink is dedicated to you! —JoanG