Mellow Yellow Recipe

Chill glass

Place a coupe or rocks glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes to chill while you prepare the cocktail.

If using egg white, add the vodka, lemon juice, orange juice, citrus liqueur, simple syrup, banana liqueur (if using), and egg white to a cocktail shaker without ice for a dry shake. Dry-shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds to emulsify and build a frothy texture.

After the dry shake (or immediately, if not using egg white), add the cubed ice to the shaker. Shake vigorously for 10–15 seconds until the shaker feels very cold (this chills and dilutes the drink properly).

Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into the chilled coupe glass for a neat served-up cocktail. If you prefer the drink on the rocks, fill a rocks glass with fresh ice and double-strain the cocktail over the ice.

Express oils from a lemon twist over the surface of the cocktail by holding the twist over the drink and pinching it to release the citrus oil; rub the peel along the rim and drop it into the glass. Alternatively, float a thin orange wheel.

Lightly grate a small amount of nutmeg or additional lemon zest over the foam or surface for an aromatic finish (use sparingly — about 1/8 teaspoon).

Serve immediately and enjoy. Sip slowly to appreciate the mellow citrus balance and soft texture.