A refreshing cucumber vodka cocktail brings a spa-like vibe to any warm spring or summer day.
This easy-to-make drink combines fresh cucumber, lime juice, simple syrup, and vodka to create a cool and crisp cocktail perfect for backyard parties or relaxing afternoons.
The mix of garden-fresh cucumber and smooth vodka creates a light drink that tastes clean and bright.
Adding mint leaves gives an extra layer of freshness that makes this cocktail stand out from basic mixed drinks.
Simple ingredients and quick prep time make this recipe ideal for both new and experienced home bartenders.
The recipe can be made as a single serving or scaled up to serve a crowd at summer gatherings.
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker
- Muddler
- Fine-mesh strainer
- Collins glass
- Knife and cutting board
- Ice cube tray
- Measuring jigger
Ingredients
- 2 oz premium vodka
- 4-5 thin cucumber slices plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- Club soda
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint sprig optional garnish
Instructions
- Slice the cucumber into thin rounds.
- Add cucumber slices to the shaker and muddle gently to release the juice.
- Pour in vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup.
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake for 15 seconds.
- Fill a Collins glass with fresh ice.
- Double strain the mixture into the glass.
- Top with club soda and stir gently.
- Garnish with a cucumber slice and mint sprig.
Notes
Must Have Ingredients
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Tasting Notes
This cucumber vodka refresher brings a crisp, clean taste with bright botanical notes. The fresh cucumber adds a gentle sweetness and cool garden flavor that blends smoothly with the vodka.
The drink starts light and refreshing on the palate. Sweet notes from the simple syrup balance perfectly with tart lime juice, while club soda adds effervescence.
Key flavor elements:
- Fresh cucumber essence
- Light citrus brightness
- Subtle sweetness
- Clean vodka base
- Fizzy finish
The cocktail’s texture is silky yet bubbly. Each sip delivers a smooth mouthfeel that transitions into a lively sparkle from the carbonation.
A mild herbaceous quality comes through from the muddled cucumber, giving the drink a spa-like freshness.
The flavors remain balanced without any single ingredient overpowering the others.
Temperature plays an important role – serve this drink very cold for the best taste experience.
The ice helps marry the flavors while keeping everything bright and zingy.
Substitute
Can’t find cucumber vodka? Regular vodka works great too. Mix it with 2-3 thin cucumber slices and let it sit for 30 minutes before making the drink.
No fresh cucumber? Try these options:
- Cucumber soda
- Cucumber-flavored sparkling water
- Cucumber juice
Skip the vodka completely to make it non-alcoholic. Replace it with:
- Club soda
- Tonic water
- Ginger ale
- Sprite or 7-Up
Want to change up the flavor? These spirits work well:
- Gin
- White rum
- Light tequila
The garnish can change too. Try these instead of cucumber:
- Mint leaves
- Lime wedges
- Lemon slices
- Fresh basil
Changing ingredients will affect the taste. Start with small amounts and adjust to your liking.
