Description
A crisp, refreshing, and hydrating summer drink made with fresh cucumbers, lemons, mint, and sparkling water. It’s a low-sugar, sophisticated alternative to sugary sodas that comes together in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large English cucumbers (about 1 pound / 450g)
- 3 large lemons (about 1 cup / 240ml juice)
- 1 large bunch fresh mint leaves (about 1 cup packed / 30g)
- 3–4 tablespoons honey or agave nectar
- 4–6 cups cold plain sparkling water
- Ice cubes
- Optional garnish: Extra mint sprigs, lemon wheels, cucumber ribbons
Instructions
- Rinse cucumbers and slice them in half lengthwise, then chop into rough chunks. Toss into a large pitcher.
- Add fresh mint leaves to the pitcher. Gently bruise the mint and cucumbers using a muddler or spoon handle to release oils and juices without shredding the leaves.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice directly into the pitcher, discarding seeds. Add honey (microwave briefly to thin if necessary) and stir to combine.
- Add about 1 cup of cold water to the pitcher and stir vigorously to dissolve the honey. Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness as needed.
- Fill the pitcher with ice cubes.
- Just before serving, top with cold sparkling water, pouring slowly down the side to preserve bubbles. Stir gently once.
- Garnish with cucumber ribbons, lemon wheels, and mint sprigs. Serve immediately.
Notes
Do not over-muddle the mint as it can become bitter. Use cold ingredients for the best taste. The sparkling water should be added just before serving to maintain carbonation. The base can be made up to 24 hours in advance, but do not add sparkling water until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 9
- Sodium: 10
- Carbohydrates: 11
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 1
Keywords: sparkling cucumber mint lemonade, summer drinks, healthy lemonade, non-alcoholic cocktails, hydrating drinks, easy recipes, gluten-free drinks