Refreshing Cucumber & Mint cocktail for summer
REFRESHING Cucumber & Mint cocktail for summer is a easy International recipe that serves 2. 20 calories per serving. Recipe by Just Have a Drink on YouTube.
Prep: 7 min | Cook: PT0M | Total: 12 min
Cost: $1.75 total, $0.88 per serving
Ingredients
- 10 leaves Fresh Mint Leaves (rinsed and gently patted dry)
- 1/2 medium Cucumber (washed, thinly sliced)
- 1 cup Ice Cubes (crushed or whole cubes)
- 2 cups Sparkling Water (chilled)
Instructions
Wash Ingredients
Rinse the mint leaves and cucumber under cold running water. Pat the mint dry with a paper towel.
Time: PT2M
Slice Cucumber
Using a sharp knife, cut the cucumber into thin half‑moon slices.
Time: PT2M
Muddle Mint and Cucumber
Place the mint leaves and cucumber slices into the glass. Gently smash (muddle) them together with a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon until the mint releases its aroma.
Time: PT1M
Add Ice
Fill the glass with ice cubes, covering the muddled herbs and cucumber.
Time: PT30S
Pour Sparkling Water
Slowly pour chilled sparkling water over the ice, allowing it to mix with the muddled ingredients.
Time: PT1M
Stir and Serve
Give the drink a gentle stir to distribute flavor, then serve immediately.
Time: PT30S
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 20
- Protein
- 0g
- Carbohydrates
- 5g
- Fat
- 0g
- Fiber
- 1g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Low-Calorie
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Fresh Mint Leaves: Basil leaves, Thai basil
- Instead of Cucumber: Zucchini, Celery
- Instead of Ice Cubes: Frozen water bottles
- Instead of Sparkling Water: Still water, Flavored sparkling water
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Muddler or Wooden Spoon
- Glass or Tumbler
- Stirring Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Muddling the mint and cucumber without over‑mashing the cucumber.
- Using chilled sparkling water to maintain a refreshing temperature.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Clap the mint leaves between your hands before adding to release aromatic oils.
- Use a chilled glass to keep the beverage colder longer.
Troubleshooting
Drink tastes bland.
Add a few more mint leaves or gently muddle a second time to release more oils.
Drink is too watery.
Use less sparkling water or add more cucumber slices for a thicker mouthfeel.
Cucumber pieces become mushy.
Muddle only briefly; the goal is to bruise, not puree.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store any leftover drink in a sealed container for up to 24 hours; flavor will diminish.
Freezer: Not recommended – ice will melt and dilute the drink.
Room temperature: Serve immediately; do not leave at room temperature for more than 30 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Wash and dry mint leaves a few hours ahead; store in a damp paper towel in the fridge.
- Slice cucumber and keep it in an airtight container with a splash of water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of a mint cucumber refresher in international summer beverage traditions?
Mint and cucumber have long been paired in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures as a cooling remedy against heat. Historically, simple herb‑infused waters were served to guests during hot months, and modern versions have become popular global summer mocktails.
What are the traditional regional variations of cucumber mint drinks in Mediterranean cuisine?
In Greece, a similar drink called "Menta Limonada" adds lemon juice, while in Turkey, "Cacik" blends yogurt, cucumber, and mint. The pure mint‑cucumber water presented here is a lighter, dairy‑free adaptation.
What occasions or celebrations is a mint cucumber refresher traditionally associated with in summer cultures?
It is commonly served at garden parties, beach picnics, and Ramadan Iftar gatherings where a hydrating, non‑alcoholic option is appreciated. Its bright flavor also makes it a popular brunch accompaniment.
How does a mint cucumber refresher fit into the broader international beverage tradition?
It exemplifies the global trend of herb‑infused waters that prioritize freshness, low calories, and natural flavor without added sugars or alcohol, aligning with wellness‑focused drinking habits.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for a mint cucumber refresher versus acceptable substitutes?
Authentic ingredients are fresh mint leaves, crisp cucumber, ice, and sparkling or still water. Substitutes include basil for mint, zucchini for cucumber, and flavored sparkling water for plain carbonation.
What other Mediterranean dishes pair well with a mint cucumber refresher?
It pairs beautifully with grilled halloumi, falafel, hummus platters, or light seafood salads, as the drink’s crispness balances richer, savory flavors.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making a mint cucumber refresher?
Common errors include over‑muddling the cucumber, which creates a bitter texture, and using warm water, which dulls the mint aroma. Also, adding too much ice can dilute the flavor quickly.
Why does this mint cucumber refresher recipe use a muddling step instead of simply stirring the ingredients?
Muddling gently bruises the mint leaves, releasing essential oils that give the drink its bright aroma, while a simple stir would leave the mint flavor muted.
Can I make the mint cucumber refresher ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, you can prepare the muddled mint and cucumber mixture and keep it refrigerated in a sealed jar for up to 12 hours. Add ice and sparkling water just before serving to retain carbonation.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making a mint cucumber refresher?
The drink should appear clear with visible cucumber slices and mint leaves, and the ice should be plentiful. The aroma should be fresh and herbaceous, and the mouthfeel should be crisp, not cloudy or pulpy.
What does the YouTube channel Just Have a Drink specialize in?
The YouTube channel Just Have a Drink focuses on quick, easy-to‑make non‑alcoholic beverages, ranging from infused waters to mocktails, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients and minimal equipment.
How does the YouTube channel Just Have a Drink's approach to refreshing summer drinks differ from other beverage channels?
Just Have a Drink emphasizes ultra‑simple, ingredient‑driven recipes that can be assembled in under five minutes, whereas many other channels include more elaborate techniques or alcohol‑based cocktails.
Last updated: September 3, 2026
