Black Pepper Free Classic Cucumber Mint Mocktail
Cool, crisp, and genuinely refreshing, this cucumber mint mocktail is the kind of drink that makes you feel like you're sitting poolside even on an ordinary Tuesday. Fresh English cucumber and bright mint are muddled together to release every drop of their natural flavor, then shaken with lime juice and a quick homemade simple syrup for a perfectly balanced sip. The sparkling water finish gives it that satisfying effervescence without any store-bought mixer drama. For anyone avoiding black pepper, this recipe is a natural fit — every single ingredient is clean, simple, and completely free of the spice, so there's no label-scanning or second-guessing required. It's one of those drinks that looks impressive in the glass but comes together with minimal effort and a handful of fresh ingredients. Serve it at a brunch, a backyard gathering, or just as a midday treat — the cucumber rounds and mint sprigs on top make it feel genuinely special.
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Learn more →Ingredients
2 servings
For the simple syrup
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
For the mocktail
- ½ medium english cucumber (about 4 oz), cut into ¼-inch rounds
- 16 fresh mint leaves, plus 2 sprigs for garnish
- 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (from about 2 limes)
- 1 cup sparkling water, chilled
- 1 cup ice cubes
For serving
- 2 thin cucumber rounds, for garnish (optional)
- 2 mint sprigs, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Combine the sugar and water in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes until no longer steaming.
- 2
Add the cucumber rounds and mint leaves to a cocktail shaker or large jar. Muddle firmly until the cucumber releases its juice and the mint is bruised and fragrant, about 10–12 presses.
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