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Fresh Cucumber Mint Sparkler

Fresh Cucumber Mint Sparkler - featured image

A quick and easy refreshing summer drink combining fresh cucumber, mint, and sparkling water with a touch of sweetness and lime for a crisp, invigorating beverage.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium fresh cucumber, thinly sliced (preferably English cucumber)
  • 1012 fresh mint leaves, gently bruised
  • 3 cups (24 fl oz) chilled sparkling water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 12 tablespoons simple syrup or honey, adjusted to taste
  • Ice cubes, plenty
  • Optional: pinch of sea salt
  • Optional: cucumber ribbons for garnish
  • Optional: splash of elderflower cordial

Instructions

  1. Rinse and dry the cucumber. Slice into thin rounds about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Set aside a few slices for garnish.
  2. Place 10-12 fresh mint leaves in the bottom of a large pitcher. Gently bruise the mint with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to release oils without pulverizing.
  3. Add the sliced cucumber to the pitcher and stir gently to combine with the mint.
  4. Pour in 1-2 tablespoons of simple syrup or honey and 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice. Stir gently until the sweetener dissolves.
  5. Fill the pitcher about halfway with ice cubes, then add 3 cups (24 fl oz) of chilled sparkling water. Stir gently to combine without losing fizz.
  6. Taste the sparkler and adjust sweetness or lime juice as desired. If the cucumber flavor is weak, add more slices and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
  7. Pour into glasses and garnish with cucumber slices or mint sprigs. Serve immediately for best fizz and freshness.

Notes

Use fresh, vibrant mint for best aroma. Avoid over-muddling mint to prevent bitterness. Slice cucumber thinly for better flavor release. Chill all ingredients to maintain fizz. Prepare just before serving to keep bubbles lively. Optional to strain for a clearer drink. Sweetener can be adjusted or substituted with stevia or maple syrup for low-carb options.

Nutrition

Keywords: cucumber drink, mint sparkler, summer drink, refreshing beverage, sparkling water drink, easy summer recipe, non-alcoholic cocktail