Looking for a fun non-alcoholic drink for your next gathering? This Cucumber Citrus Refresher Mocktail combines crisp cucumber with bright citrus flavors to create a refreshing beverage everyone can enjoy. This easy-to-make mocktail requires just five ingredients and takes less than ten minutes to prepare.
The recipe uses fresh cucumber, lime juice, and a hint of mint for a cool, hydrating taste. Unlike many store-bought drinks, this homemade option contains no artificial ingredients or added sugars.
Whether served at a backyard barbecue or as an afternoon treat, this mocktail provides a tasty way to stay hydrated. The combination of cucumber and citrus creates a balanced flavor that’s both light and satisfying without being too sweet.
Equipment
- Blender or food processor
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Muddler (or wooden spoon as alternative)
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tall glasses for serving
- Knife and cutting board
- Pitcher (if making multiple servings)
Ingredients
For 2 servings:
- 1 medium cucumber peeled and chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice about 4 limes
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice about 2 lemons
- 3 tablespoons honey or agave nectar
- 1 cup cold sparkling water
- 8-10 fresh mint leaves
- Ice cubes
- Cucumber slices and lime wheels for garnish
Optional additions:
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- A pinch of sea salt
- 2-3 drops of orange blossom water
Use organic cucumbers and citrus when possible for the best flavor.
Instructions
- Wash and peel the cucumber. Cut it into chunks and add to the blender.
- Blend until smooth, then strain through a fine mesh strainer into a pitcher. Press with a spoon to extract all the juice.
- Add fresh lime and lemon juices to the cucumber juice and stir well.
- Mix in the honey or agave nectar until completely dissolved.
- Tear mint leaves and add them to the glasses. Gently muddle to release their flavor.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes, then pour the cucumber-citrus mixture until glasses are 2/3 full.
- Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
- Garnish with cucumber slices and lime wheels before serving.
This mocktail is best enjoyed immediately while cold and fizzy.
Notes
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Tasting Notes
The Cucumber Citrus Refresher Mocktail offers a bright, crisp flavor profile that balances sweet and tart notes perfectly. Upon first sip, the cool cucumber becomes immediately apparent.
Fresh lime juice adds a zesty punch that wakes up the taste buds. This tartness is gently balanced by a touch of simple syrup or honey.
Mint leaves contribute a refreshing herbal quality that lingers pleasantly. The optional splash of soda water creates a light effervescence that makes each sip more lively.
Flavor Profile Breakdown:
- Primary:Â Cucumber (cool, subtle)
- Secondary:Â Citrus (bright, tangy)
- Accent:Â Mint (aromatic, fresh)
- Finish:Â Clean, slightly sweet
The mocktail has a light body with a smooth mouthfeel. Its pale green color hints at the refreshing experience to come.
This drink is most enjoyable when very cold. Ice helps maintain the crisp character without watering down the flavors too quickly.
The aftertaste is clean and short, making it an excellent palate cleanser between meals or a refreshing standalone beverage on warm days.
Substitute
If you don’t have all the ingredients for the Cucumber Citrus Refresher Mocktail, don’t worry! There are many simple swaps you can make.
No fresh cucumber? Try using cucumber-flavored water or a small amount of cucumber extract instead.
For a sweeter drink, replace simple syrup with honey, agave nectar, or maple syrup. Each will add a different flavor note to your mocktail.
No-muddler options:
If you don’t have a muddler, use the back of a wooden spoon to crush ingredients. A fork can also work in a pinch.
Frozen cucumber can replace fresh and ice for an extra-cold version. Simply freeze cucumber slices ahead of time.
For color variations, add a splash of cranberry juice (pink) or blueberry juice (purple) to create a visually different drink that still maintains the refreshing qualities.
The recipe is flexible, so feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!