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Cucumber Mint Cooler - A Crisp, Refreshing Drink for Any Day

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large English cucumber (or 2 Persian cucumbers), peeled if waxed
  • 1 packed cup fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes), or lemon juice
  • 2–3 tablespoons simple syrup (or honey, agave, or maple syrup), to taste
  • 2 cups cold water or sparkling water
  • Ice, for serving
  • Optional: pinch of salt to enhance flavor
  • Optional garnish: cucumber ribbons or slices, lime wheels, extra mint sprigs
  • Optional alcohol: 1–2 ounces gin or vodka per serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the cucumber: Rinse and trim the ends. If the skin is tough or waxed, peel it. Slice into chunks for easier blending.
  2. Blend the base: Add cucumber, mint leaves, lime juice, 2 tablespoons simple syrup, and 1 cup of the water to a blender. Blend until completely smooth and bright green.
  3. Strain (optional): For a smoother drink, pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a pitcher, pressing gently to extract the liquid. If you like a bit of pulp, skip this step.
  4. Adjust and dilute: Stir in the remaining cup of cold water. Taste and add more syrup if you prefer it sweeter. Add a tiny pinch of salt to sharpen the flavors.
  5. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or add a handful of ice to the pitcher if serving right away.
  6. Serve: Fill glasses with ice. Pour in the cooler. Garnish with cucumber slices, lime wheels, and a slap of fresh mint (give the mint a light smack between your palms to release aroma).
  7. Make it sparkling (optional): Replace the second cup of water with chilled sparkling water just before serving. Do not blend or shake with the bubbles.
  8. Cocktail variation (optional): Add 1–2 ounces of chilled gin or vodka to each glass before pouring in the cooler. Stir gently.