This Cool Cucumber-Mint Drink is so refreshing and light, it's just what you need when summer heats up. Fresh cucumber mixed with mint and a splash of lemon makes for a super hydrating, tasty drink that'll cool you down fast.
What You'll Need
- Mini Cucumbers: Grab 3 small ones and cut them into skinny ribbons or circles for that cool base taste.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: You'll want 6 for mixing in, plus a few extra sprigs to make it look pretty.
- Lemons or Limes: Get 2 of these - squeeze 1 1/2 into your drink and save the rest for decoration.
- Lemon Seltzer Water: Pour in 1 liter to add those nice bubbles that make it extra refreshing.
- Ice Cubes: Toss in as many as you want to keep everything nice and cold.
How To Make It
- Step 1:
- Take your mini cucumbers and slice them super thin using a peeler or mandoline. Drop these slices into a pitcher.
- Step 2:
- Toss those mint leaves in with the cucumber and lightly crush them together to get all the good flavors out.
- Step 3:
- Cut open your lemons (or limes) and squeeze 1 1/2 of them into the mix. Keep that other half lemon for making it look fancy later.
- Step 4:
- Add your lemon seltzer water and give everything a good mix to blend all those tasty flavors.
- Step 5:
- Fill tall glasses with ice, pour your drink in, and if you're feeling fancy, stick a mint sprig and lemon slice on the edge.
Serving Ideas
- Always pour this drink over lots of ice to keep it super cold and refreshing.
- Stick a mint sprig and lemon slice on each glass to make it look pretty and add extra flavor kick.
- Drink it right away for the best taste, but you can keep leftovers in the fridge for about 2 days. Just give it a stir before drinking.
Quick Tips
- Want it more minty? Just throw in a couple extra mint leaves when you're crushing them with the cucumber.
- If you like sweeter drinks, stir in a teaspoon of honey or agave before adding the bubbly water.
Pro Chef Advice
- Jamie Oliver says a little splash of elderflower cordial goes amazingly with the cucumber and mint combo.
- Yotam Ottolenghi thinks adding thin slices of fresh ginger gives this cool drink a nice spicy kick.
Why It's So Good
- It's super light and hydrating, making it perfect for hot afternoons or summer parties.
- The mix of cucumber and mint tastes amazing together, and the lemon gives it that perfect zing.
- You can whip this up in about 10 minutes, so it's great when friends drop by unexpectedly.
Mix It Up
- Pour in some sparkling water for even more fizz and freshness.
- Try using plain bubbly water instead of lemon seltzer and sweeten it yourself with honey or agave.
- For something different, throw in some sliced strawberries or raspberries to make it fruity.