Description

A crisp, refreshing, and elegant non-alcoholic summer drink made with fresh cucumber juice, elderflower cordial, and sparkling water. It is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan.

Ingredients

Scale

2 large English cucumbers (about 600g)
½ cup (120ml) elderflower cordial
3 tablespoons (45ml) fresh lemon juice
2 cups (480ml) ice-cold sparkling water
1 lime, sliced into wheels for garnish
1 small bunch fresh mint leaves
Ice cubes
Edible flowers (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Wash cucumbers thoroughly. If using English cucumbers, leave skin on; if using regular cucumbers, peel them first.
Slice cucumbers in half lengthwise and chop into rough chunks.
Juice the cucumber chunks using a juicer to get 1.5 to 2 cups of juice. Alternatively, blend chunks with ¼ cup water and strain through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove pulp.
In a pitcher, combine the cucumber juice, elderflower cordial, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well and taste, adjusting sweetness or tartness as needed.
Place highball glasses in the freezer for at least 10 minutes to chill.
Fill chilled glasses with ice cubes.
Pour the cucumber-elderflower base into the glasses, filling them about halfway.
Top off with ice-cold sparkling water, leaving a little room at the top.
Stir gently to combine.
Garnish with a lime wheel and muddled mint leaves. Serve immediately.

Notes

For best results, use English cucumbers for their tender skin and sweet flavor. Chill glasses beforehand to keep the drink crisp. Do not mix sparkling water into the base ahead of time as it will go flat. The base can be made up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. Add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Beverages
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 glass
Calories: 45
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 10
Carbohydrates: 10
Fiber: 1
Protein: 1

Keywords: mocktail, summer drink, elderflower, cucumber, non-alcoholic, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, refreshing, party drink